Goodbye Blue Monday

In honor of the great Kurt Vonnegut, one of my favorite writers (who died 9 years ago today) I thought I'd take this opportunity to talk a little about books/novels and their impact on the pop culture collectible world; first editions, and finally, Vonnegut first editions.

A lot of people don't consider novels when they think pop culture... But novels are responsible for the creation of some of the most iconic characters and franchises (from Hannibal Lecter to Dexter to the world of Westeros....)

First editions are a love of mine that my brother sometimes shares (he's more Tolkien/Martin - I'm more Leonard/Palahniuk...) I consider true first editions as the "first appearance" of some key characters in popular culture - similar to a comic book character's first appearance issue...

Finding a key, valuable first edition at a decent price can be tricky. Book sales are held all over and can be fairly popular but also are great for treasure hunting, and libraries occasionally have used book sections where gems can be found.

These first editions though fetch big bucks and you will likely only find at a great used book store or on eBay. But if you come across one of these at a sale or a family member is using it as a coaster, pick it up right away - just make sure it's not the book club edition if you're looking for investment...

Slaughterhouse-Five (1969)

Vonnegut's most famous novel made into a film in 1972 that won the Grand Jury prize at Cannes.


Cat's Cradle (1963)

One of Vonnegut's best books. Rare to find a true first of this baby.


Breakfast of Champions (1973)

The most affordable of the three first editions and one of my favorite Vonnegut books (although the film adaptation in 1999 wasn't so well-received.)
This one has potential to go up in value over the years.


And that's it for today! In honor of Kurt here's a quote of his:

"I tell you, we are here on Earth to fart around, and don't let anybody tell you different."


Thanks again Mr. Vonnegut, for all of it.

And yeah, we'll have more first edition talk in blogs to come....