Powells Launching Book Club by Mail

Powell’s Books, home of the largest independent bookstore in the US, is launching a new book club by mail. For $39.95, you’ll receive one box every six weeks with a book and a gift. The book could be anything from a first edition hardcover with a special case or a signed high quality ARC. The gift might be a DVD, CD or mug. Powell’s compares it to the Cracker Jack box surprise.

The goal is to highlight new and emerging authors. Publishers are encouraged to include items for the reader such as a note or a reader response card.

I think this is a neat gift idea. I’ve frequently bought Harry and David’s Fruit of the Month club as gifts but for the bibliophile, the Powell’s subscription sounds like a great idea. I can’t help but wonder why it wasn’t launched before Christmas.

The club is limited to 200 at this point but Powell’s hopes to expand. I believe this will sell out quite soon. I’ve sent the link to Ned with a broad hint that Valentine’s Day is coming up. Chocolate is an illusory pleasure. Books, though, will last forever, like – you know – our love.