H. Thomas Steele

This is an attractive collection of decades of matchbook covers. The books includes a history of matches and of phillumeny ("love of light"), as this hobby is called. There is also a glossary of terms and an explanation of preserving the books. Happily, it is not necessary to keep the matches, except in those cases where they have designs on them. I imagine those collectors having a collection of little fireproof boxes.

Not only are the covers attractive, but there are surprising varieties. Not only can the matches themselves be decorated, but it was also possible to have the striking incorporated into the design. People could, for example, strike their matches on Hitler's butt. The matchcovers are arranged by subject and the page layout is attractive. One wonders if the large numbers of erotic matchbooks reflects the preferences of the author or the market.

A good choice for people either interested in beginning the hobby, or interested in these intriguing bits of popular culture.

Readers interested in matchbox labels may wish to consult Jane Smith's Matchbox Labels.… (mere)