Thursday 26 January 2012

Added Value; Book inscriptions - Baz from Colliwobbles

Widdershins Crescent

Many of the books that come into stock contain personal dedications. Often, these are simple to/from messages but sometimes the dedication offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the book.




To Baz from an everlasting pal Colliwobbles. 14th April 1969.

I would love to know if Baz and Colliwobbles are still friends. I would also love to know how Colliwobbles got his nickname. If only books could talk!

Do you have a nickname? Is it one you would be willing to share?

13 comments:

  1. It is a shame that books can't talk, but sometimes these inscriptions can really set off the imagination, don't you think?

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  2. It is a shame that books can't talk, but sometimes these inscriptions can really set off the imagination, don't you think?

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  3. I don't remember having a nickname until in my adolescence. Classmates and schoolmates called me 'Ice Maiden' ~ thought it was pretty interesting back then, but it probably didn't mean too well!

    I was intrigued by that 'everlasting pal' bit ... 'Colliwobbles' made me curious, too.

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  4. Don't these personalized messages just make books more endearing? I love when you show these.

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  5. They really are a tantalising glimpse into a lost world. I am also intrigued by the 'everlasting pal' bit - usually two quite different sentiments - pal being casual and everlasting hinting at real devotion. I'm sure when this was written Colliwobbles had no idea a whole group of strangers would be so touched by it!

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  6. I suspect "pal" may be more casual, even sarcastic, in N.A. but not in the U.K.
    pfg

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  7. I always enjoy reading inscriptions. Often- I hope that I will find one written by someone I know- a relative or friend. My grandmother inscribed a message in every book she ever gave anyone. I think it would be special to stumble upon a book she gave to someone else and to see the message. You never know! I did have a nickname (with my family)- but I find I don't like to share it. I have lots of nicknames with my friends- but most have to do with my name.

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  8. Baz and Colliwobbles! Amazing, must keep in mind for a story someday.

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  9. barbaraannefisher27 January 2012 at 09:05

    Alex,
    I do indeed. It would be lovely if Baz or Colliwobbles commented on this post.

    Donna,
    it certainly does make them more endearing. I am quite disappointed when I find a book without a message!

    Darlene,
    what a fantastic idea! Baz and Colliwobbles would make great characters for a book.

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  10. barbaraannefisher27 January 2012 at 09:11

    Claudine, it was lovely of you to share your nickname from school. I was called lots of things at school (some nice - some not so nice), one I can share is Flickers but others that rhyme with Flickers shall remain under wraps!!

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  11. barbaraannefisher27 January 2012 at 09:20

    Pal is (or certainly was in 1969) a term of endearment in the UK. My dad always used the expression "my old pal or pals” when talking about boyhood friends. I had no idea it had a different meaning in N.A, how funny. Thanks for commenting.

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  12. barbaraannefisher27 January 2012 at 09:30

    Hello Sharon, I was also touched by it. It makes me wonder if Baz has ever regretted mislaying his book. If you are reading this Baz please get in touch, I would be happy to return it to you.

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  13. barbaraannefisher27 January 2012 at 09:41

    Hi Jess, I am exactly the same! I would love to find a book (any book) with an inscription from a friend or family member, no luck so far, but I will keep looking. I understand about not sharing your family nickname, I have some I could/would share and some I prefer to keep private.

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I really appreciate your comment. Thank you!
Barbara xx