- by DAVE MOODY
The expression “hidden in plain sight” may remind some of the title of Jeffrey Archer’s novel, the second book in his epic William Warwick crime-thriller series.
The phrase also aptly describes the joy of discovering second-hand books, often tucked away in unexpected places.
As an avid reader and book collector, I’ve found buying second-hand books an excellent way to complete a beloved series without breaking the bank.
Why collect books? For me, a great read deserves a permanent spot on my bookshelf. Owning a complete series allows me to revisit the stories I love, much like rewatching a favourite movie.
In my household, for instance, we’ve watched The Godfather more times than I can remember.
Similarly, having a complete book series means I can dive back into those stories anytime.
My bookshelf is filled with half-completed series, each waiting for that elusive missing volume.
It sometimes takes years to find the right second-hand book to complete a set. But that’s part of the thrill – the anticipation of stumbling upon a long-sought-after title.
Second-hand booksellers were a common sight in most towns in the past.
I fondly remember a great one on Uxbridge Road in Howick. Sadly, many of these shops have disappeared over the years.
A few still exist, albeit farther afield. Hard to Find Books on St Benedict’s Street, Eden Terrace, is a fantastic resource, though it’s not a five-minute drive away.
Bookarama, the annual Howick Rotary fundraising project, is a godsend for book lovers. It’s on at Somerville Intermediate School on October 9-13.
Bookarama is Auckland’s largest charitable book fair offering thousands of pre-loved titles at great prices, with all proceeds benefiting the community.
It’s a must-visit event for anyone wanting a bargain read or looking to expand their collection.
If you can’t get to Bookarama, local op shops are a treasure trove of second-hand books and are the “hidden in plain sight” for me.
Op shops have largely taken over the role of second-hand booksellers.
East Auckland is blessed with an abundance of these stores, supporting charities and churches such as Hospice, Hato Hone St John, SPCA, Salvation Army, St Columba, and Eastgate Christian Centre, to name a few.
A quick Google search for “op shops near me” can kickstart a book-hunting adventure.
Some op shops only have a shelf or two of reading material stock, while others boast extensive collections.
Whether large or small, any op shop can potentially yield the book you’ve been seeking.
Not only might a great read be found, or a missing piece for your collection at a fantastic price, but the purchase supports worthy causes within and beyond our community.
Second-hand book hunting is a rewarding quest that reveals treasures hidden in plain sight.
It combines the joy of reading with the satisfaction of helping good causes. Good hunting!
