Mom

“[Mom] bursts with stories that are unvarnished, sad, funny, wise, and most of all, very real.” —Chicago Tribune (Editor's Choice)

“Isay brings a satisfying second collection of StoryCorps selections after the bestselling Listening Is an Act of Love. . . . Readers will encounter an emotional range from heart-wrenching to inspirational in these compelling maternal accounts.” —Publishers Weekly

Featuring StoryCorps' most revealing stories on the subject, Mom looks across a diversity of experience to offer an entirely original portrait of motherhood. In conversations between parents and children, husbands and wives, siblings and friends, the life of the American mother unfolds. In these stories of profound joy and sadness, courage and despair, struggle and triumphs, we learn new truths about that most primal and sacred of bonds-the relationship between mother and child. With this vital contribution to the American storybook, StoryCorps has created a tribute to mothers that honors the meaning of family and the expansiveness of the human heart.

Dave Isay's latest book, Callings, published in 2016 from Penguin Press.

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