March 12, 2020
A documentary about book sellers is here to lift your spirits
by Andréa Córdova
The World Health Organization has officially declared COVID-19 a pandemic, the Democratic primary is in free fall, the president of the United States has once again misspelled a basic word, and each day the apocalypse seems more imminent. To reset your state of mind, book lovers will find plenty of joy in a new documentary called The Book Sellers. Released on March 6, the documentary features many booksellers you might have asked for book suggestions. With an admirable score of 82% on Rotten Tomatoes, this limited release documentary may be available in your hometown.
The documentary dives into a part of bookselling that many are interested in but few have the money for—rare and first edition books. They are the New York antiquarian book dealers who have proudly been in their careers for decades. The book dealers provide plenty of fun, eccentric personality, and their love and passion for books is infectious. The cast comprises of diverse industry veterans who transport you into their world—the daily tasks and the bigger picture of analyzing a bookstore customer.
An inspiring tone runs through The Book Sellers, enough to want the viewer to run to the nearest bookstore immediately after viewing. It is a nice break for anyone who is sick of the vicious news cycle and needs a breather. For anyone who loves books—this is the pick-me-up film you want to see.
Andréa Córdova is a publicist at Melville House.