Hot Springs

Immerse yourself in hot springs from around the world in this stunning visual adventure that features photographs and stories of the unique topographies, regional uses, and cultural meanings of thermal baths.

This book transports you to high mountains, remote islands, vast deserts, and the Arctic to soak in the ethereal beauty of natural hot springs. From sacred sites in India to municipal pools in Iceland and beyond, photojournalist Greta Rybus has traveled the world to document the warm, wild gathering places that have comforted the weary and adventurous for centuries. 

Each spring is unique, a reflection of not just its physical location but of the people who care for and enjoy it. Hot Springs guides you through breathtaking landscapes and offers intriguing insights on historical significance, proper etiquette, and the roles these springs have in their communities. You’ll hear from bathers in Hungary and Japan about how hot baths are a consistent part of their wellness and social routines. You’ll learn about a repatriated hot spring in South Africa and explore the power of communal ownership for locals in Alaska, Greenland, and Mexico. You’ll read about a pool that Antony reportedly gave to Cleopatra and hot springs in Iceland still connected to an outlaw past.

Greta’s breathtaking photography transports you to more than two dozen worldwide locations while introducing you to the interconnected communities surrounding them. Hot Springs is your invitation to revel in the healing powers of water and its ability to connect us to ourselves, others, and the planet.

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs