gentle art of wondering

I am just as surprised as anyone else by the current price of good secondhand copies of the UK edition of The Gentle Art of Domesticity. The book is now out of print, and unfortunately the original publisher has no plans to reprint it. The US edition is still available (in the UK, too) but for this the recipes were converted to US measurements and the text was lightly Americanised (whatever your view is on this - and I have a strong one - this is simply what happens sometimes, and the decision to leave alone/Americanise does not lie with the author). It also doesn't have the marshmallow heart on its cover, and it seems that this is something many people like.

So we are wondering what to do. Do we seek a new publisher? Do we publish it ourselves? Do we leave it alone, a one-off book with quite a back-story? Do we guard the few copies we own then speculate madly on the market? Do we wrap them up and save them for the next generation or two who may choose use them to light fires to toast heart-shaped marshmallows? You may notice I say 'we', as Simon is the driving force here. He doesn't like to see the book languishing when there is a demand for it (emails, conversations, price etc tell us this is so) and wants to do something about it it. I wonder. Maybe we should have a new (ad)venture?

 

Comments

[Diana]

Publish it yourself. Take complete control of the process so you won't have to listen to some nitwit publisher say, "But an American reader won't know what a fairy cake is."

[Kristina]

I've treasured my UK version for years--it will never leave my hands! It introduced me to so many pleasures--Persephone Books, self-striping sock yarn, and flapjacks, to name a few. The first thing I did after it arrived was to make a giant pink marshmallow! I hope it finds a new publisher who can appreciate it. <3

[melissa]

I have been reading it again lately and wondering at the Americanized language. It's a shame, too, because I would have really enjoyed the UK version, metric measurements and everything. I do wish publishers would quit assuming that all American readers are too dumb to figure it out. Oh, well.

But I will say that I love both covers. There's something about the American cover that reminds me of quilt squares being laid out to find the perfect pattern. Which really goes along with the book quite perfectly.

It does sound like a second run is warranted, though.

[D A Nelson]

Hiya. Make sure you check your publishing contract. You normally have to wait a few years before you can get the book back and republish. Can't believe it's out of print already...I haven't got this one yet. Sigh.
Dawn x
PS am making your fab chocolate cake for my folks coming round this afternoon. It's SO nice.

[Carol Wilkie]

I too have the American copy and I love it. I bought it very resonably in May and it is my go to book if I am needing inspiration or just a mental hug. I love the american copy as I lived there when my children were small so all the 'americanisations' are nostalgic for me.The picture of the marsmallow heart is in this book too. Having said that you should reprint as I would love to give copies to friends. I have bought your other gentle art books and recommended them many times. I am awaiting my winter hat knitted by my sister in law. I have that book too and it has inspired me to learn crochet to make the chevron blanket or afgahan as they say in the states. good luck and keep writing

[Jen]

This is a treasure, one of my all time favourite books, a present I have given to many and a book that on a dull day can be re read, with a cup of tea and a slice of cake. It will be a loss if this is no longer published. My well loved edition will now be treasured, and protected for my children!

[StellaMM]

Publish yourselves. From one who doesn't know what is involved, and doesn't know the hassles involved.

I think this book has a good following that you could build on.

Yes NZ Quilter website does have some copies showing as available.

[Lesley]

It's so sad that a book such as your can become out of print, even though there's a demand for it, and yet complete and utter tripe manages to remain in circulation for years. Something wrong somewhere!
My halfpenny worth? Self publish. As with some others, I say that with absolutely no idea of what's involved but with the strong conviction that we allow far too many so called experts to dictate what's what in our lives. Time to be more independant perhaps? Best of luck.(I'm fortunate enough to have one of the first copies - certainly helped me through some rough times).

[geraldine]

I cherish my copy, and have lent it to lots of people, who have enjoyed it as much as I have. It would be great to re-publish - bad decision by the original publishers not to do so - so others can share the magic; as so many of the above postees have. I look forward to your next adventure in print to add to my collection!

[Kathleen]

This is such a wonderfful book. I think there will always be a market for it. I remember I ordered and pre paid for it before it was published. Anyone who owns it knows how wonderful it is. It has made the most fantastic present.I must admit to being a bit precious about my own copy of it ( I dont Lend!).Ultimately you have to do what is right for you, but a republish sounds like a very good risk.

[horse care]

Golly I remember this being published, how time flies, hard to believe it is now out of print. Considering the number of comments on the subject I'd have thought that your orginal publisher would be contacting you to talk about re-publishing.

[Kashi Griffith]

I have to agree with Stephanie. Americans are some of your biggest fans. I didn't realize being an american was such a bad thing. I am an american and I lived in London for a long time when I was in college and over here,in the US, when we say something is British it doesn't seem like an insult.

[LoriAngela]

I gently suggest you talk to Cat Bhordi. http://catbordhi.com/
She has insight into publishing.
I wouldn't care, because I have my copy, but I need to get some for gifts.

[Jo]

I love, love, love this book. It's my 'desert island' book - and this from an utter bookworm! I've been trying to get a copy of "Cherry Cake...." for ages though. If you do seek another publisher, or indeed choose to self-publish PLEASE include "Cherry Cake...." in the deal!

[Lynne Kovan]

I have recommended this book to SO MANY friends who can really do with some gentle, gentle domesticity. I now fear they may not be able to get a copy. One thing is certain, I can't part with mine! I think another batch would go down very well, and sell like hotcakes. I don't know anything about publishing, but I do know how frustrating it can be not to get a book I badly want because it's no longer available. Just so glad a good friend recommended you to me in time!

[Phoebe]

I am so glad i got mine when i did, second-hand, on Amazon. I had wanted it for ages and asked around several bookstores who told me it was out of print. I think i paid about the original RRP for a "pre-loved" copy in ok condition. I could have bought the US copy, but desperately longed for the pink love heart marshmallow cover because i felt it just 'went' with the also gorgeous Gentle Art of Quiltmaking. They are so pretty.
Please reprint, because there are so many people i would love to give this book too. It is so inspiring - it just makes me happy.

[Carol Wessel]

It would be great to see this published again I'd buy a copy!

[Margaret Bridger]

Yes please, reprint the gentle art of domesticity, in the English mode. I have worn out our local library's copy. I would love to buy a proper copy when you reprint. Please let me know if you decide to print. I live in Australia, I hope you will post. Margaret

[Jake at Dapper and Dreamy]

I must tell you, this is one of those rare books that I want very much to have on hand for future generations to learn what are, in many cases, lost arts. Please do re/self-publish.

And, adding my voice to many of the other Americans who have posted here... We like "British-isms"... That's one of the reasons we buy British books by British authors! So, republish the UK version, please!

[Lisa Ackerman Tomsha]

I am one of your american fans - and I for one am very grateful that there is an american version.

[Jenny of Elefantz]

Jane, go for it!!
I have my original copy, and also gave some away as gifts because I loved your book so much and wanted my friends and daughter to own a copy too. I'm so happy I own a 'marshmallow' cover. It's a perfect cover for your book, and I'm sad too that others can't buy a copy like this anymore - unless their oil billionaires...
Hugs
Jenny
xx

[Lizzie]

I'm baffled the publisher doesn't want to reprint.
When the book was released, I was a Waterstone's bookseller and this was my recommended book on the front of store display. We could never get more than one copy in at a time, and when we did have one, it generally sold quickly (leaving a gaping hole in the display, which I'd generally plug with Elspeth Thompson's "Homemade" [until that too went OOP!] or the nearest Tessa Kiros book)
Maybe you could reprint with a few updates? I daresay a copy would find its way into my hands if that happened.... :)

[karen]

If the publisher is insistent on letting the book fall into print, number one is you must ensure that rights are reverted to you AND that you are able to purchase off them the print ready files. Then you could look into self-publishing and print on demand, though the unit cost of this book as a real 'book' will be high and you may not have the financial muscle behind you to circulate as widely as it deserves. I just can't see this working as an ebook - this is the type of book readers want to cherish and see on a bookshelf. If the publisher is adamant that they don't want to reprint (which is a shame but they may have their financial reasons) is it worth cherry picking other alternative lists you admire and approaching them? The sad reality is that publishing is suffering in the recession like many industries and some cold, hard decisions are having to be made. Good luck! There is clearly a loyal readership.

[Sue]

Having read your blog, and all the comments I now need to read your book :)
Sue

[Paula Rusling]

I have an English version which I think is a first edition. I use all the receipes and sometimes just stare at the beautiful pictures. It makes me reminiscent of your original postings on the old blog. I wouldn't part with my copy and think it would be a shame to deprive others of the same pleasures. Kindest regards, Paula

[Rebecca]

Hi Jane,

I, like many others, felt 'saved' by your book. A new mom at home, I walked into a bookstore with my little one and found your book. I bought it intending to give it as a gift to a visiting friend in a few months. However, I couldn't pass up reading it first myself!

Wow.... I was reminded of my crafting and creating of my childhood and boy did I ever get back at it full force. I pieced 2 quilts (have yet to quilt them) and created another out of old tshirts (that my son LOVES to lay on, its so soft).

This is a call for your book to be re-published... do it yourself, or find another publisher (or maybe share these comments with your current one!!) I would LOVE a copy of the original UK edition for myself... I really enjoyed my quiet mornings turning the pages of your book, being inspired, and waiting for my son to awaken.

Cheers. Rebecca in Canada.

[dee]

I have an American copy and love it. I enjoy it for the eye candy and your narrative, not for the recipes, so much...

[Hazel]

I love your book. I heard you on Woman's Hour way back when and ordered it straight away!!
The marshmallow cover is beautiful. Definitely go for it with the self publishing idea.
Thank you for introducing me to all sorts of creativity that I would probably never have explored if it wasn't for your book.
Warmest wishes, Hazel

[Amy]

On days when I feel overwhelmed, I make some tea and toast and read a few pages of your book. It always brings me back myself, if that makes sense. Self-publish, print on demand, find another publisher--whatever works. I want to give this book to others!

[Bryony]

I love my copy. In fact, I revisited just today to look at all the lovely sock photos. I wouldn't consider giving this one up, but I do feel sad for those people who haven't been able to get a copy!

[Odette]

Yes please to republish! It needs the heart cover. I was very lucky and got my copy from the library in a sale. It had been loved to death so that the spine had broken and couldn't be fixed. Also could you please republish the Cherry Cake book at the same time, it is rarer than hens teeth

[Suze]

I urge you to reprint. There's a whole generation waiting and wanting to hear the affirmation you give to the passions of their hearts.

[Suze]

I urge you to reprint. There's a whole generation waiting and wanting to hear the affirmation you give to the passions of their hearts.

[Lori]

I've bought this book for so many friends as gifts - in California. I treasure my copy and pour through it often for inspiration. I would love to own a copy as you intended it to be.

[Martha in Princeton]

Just echoing all the anti-Americanizing of the text comments here. As an American I'm always perplexed by the revelation of this by various authors as well as readers. I assure you- no one consulted us about it. Bring on your republished UK edition... I'd be so happy to add it to my worktable.

[Susan M.]

I think every new bride should get one as a present. So as long as girls are getting married, you should keep it on the market. :)
PS I had no idea my American version was different...But I do appreciate that everything is in measurements I can understand. It's a treasure...marshmallow heart or no.

[Sweet Mary]

Yes please Jane.

[JourneyLeaf]

I'm from the US and have our version. I really love your book! I've given it to several people as gifts. At the time I was reading it, I was pregnant with my first child. It was a great comfort as it supported a richer, more personal, more life-integrated type of creativity. I strongly encourage you to find a new publisher and put the book back out there. I think you have something significant and unique to share. There are some kindred spirits out there who would benefit. That's my two cents. :o) http://journeyleaf.typepad.com

[Jennifer]

I really, really hope you find a way to republish the UK edition. I would LOVE to be able to give a copy to each of my daughters. This book has brought such comfort and pleasure to me. I've always loved knitting, sewing and cooking but somehow, during my working life, I've felt really diffident about admitting how much these things mean to me. (My professional life began in the late 1960s, when it was quite difficult for women to prove their worth in the workplace - and my career has been in science) Your book brought great solace to me at a time of serious illness. During recovery, after bouts of intense radiotherapy, I only had the energy to to look at the pictures but now, thankfully recovered, I have been inspired to take up these'gentle arts' with renewed enthusiasm. Judging by the comments, other people feel the same about your book. This is a very important book which reflects the importance of simple things in our lives

[Maria]

I bought a second hand american edition. You should publish yourself, and make an spanish translation, too (lol). It's so cozy and I feel so good when I read it whith a cup of coffee...

1kiss.

[Crissi Blair]

Self-publishing would seem to me to be the way to go. Not something I recommend for new authors but you've got a strong brand now and this book should be a long-term seller. Be brave!

[Rachel L]

I'm all for self publishing. You are in control and you can publish it using whatever words you like. Plus although I imagine the outlay may be a considerable sum, at least the publisher doesn't take 90% of sales or whatever the ridiculous amount is these days, you wrote it for goodness sake!

I have the UK version and am very surprised to read it isn't to be republished. I imagine that publishers are only interested in a massive best seller, and who wants that? Keep it niche - those that love your writing will find you.

[Geraldine Lofthouse]

I bought your book as it had a torn cover and was on sale. I loved it and showed it to my sister who was wowed by the contents - she is the knitter and I am the baker (although now I knit too). Even though it was one of my most treasured possessions I wrapped it up and gave it to my sister for her birthday and wrote an inscription saying she could look after it for a while but I would need it to be near me again in the future. I have missed my copy but know my sister is a good surrogate. Please reprint the original I like to touch the marshmallow and pretend I made it!!

[A Jordan]

Republish somehow, some way .... I love the book.

I had to get some one to order it and bring it to Australia for me - I bought it for me, I bought it for friends ... We all love it and it would be sad if other people didn't get that same pleasure.

[Ann]

Wow..what a response this has produced. Personally I feel very chuffed as I was only asking about The GA of D a few posts ago! Although it's absolutely clear that I am not alone!

I have now bitten the bullet and bought a copy via Abe Books for just under £30 (plus vast postage costs as it's coming from South Africa). The bookseller confirms it's the UK version. Until it arrives I will hang on to the library copy as long as decently possible.

[Gary]

I adore this cover - the font and design are far and away my fave. The hotfoam pink marshmallow heart reminds me of my Nan's blancmange when it was being made in the kitchen and I can smell it's syrupy sweetness just looking at this - and it's how I discovered the world of JB!

[adele geras]

If you can afford to self-publish, I'd do that...you then keep all control. I hesitate to mention the word ebook on this blog and I'm a 100% supporter of paper books and have no desire for a Kindle but lots of books are being ebookised by their writers. Not sure if it works for something highly illustrated.

Best would be if someone would PAY you to publish it again, but in these straitened times, it's a long shot. But it ought to be reissued. Mainly because I never bought one when it first came out....GRR. Grinds teeth. Will do so next time for sure.

[Carole]

I rarely comment on anyones blog unless I feel that the person needs encouragement. Your blog is one of my favourites and gives me so much pleasure. I have had your book since day one, would never part with it as I still spend a happy hour leafing through it, and I would have bought others as gifts if I could have. Definitely republish it yourself.I hope it makes you rich! Good look.

[OhAbigail]

Please, please do publish the original! I too wish I had bought it when I had the chance and would love to give it as a gift too.

[Jeanie Brown]

You know how sometimes even though you don't know someone..you do know them...I feel this way with you,through your book...You know the book is beautiful and British and it needs to be available here. Find a way, do what you can to make it happen...you'll know what the best way is. I would give you a day of my time if I can do anything to help.