World's Greatest Bookstores

100 postcards featuring “enchanting paintings” (USA Today) of independent bookshops from the New York Times bestseller Footnotes from the World’s Greatest Bookstores ​by New Yorker cartoonist Bob Eckstein, plus seven original illustrations

Calling all nostalgia lovers, letter writers, and anyone looking for more cozy offline activities! Bob Eckstein brings his heart-tugging illustrations to this set of 100 postcards celebrating the pillar of every community: the independent bookstore.

This tribute to our beloved bookshops and the people who work in them includes 50 total illustrations, including seven never-before-seen designs, with enough for one to save and one to send. Each postcard includes a painterly illustration with the bookstore’s name and dates of operation, plus room for writing on the back, offering a charming dedication to the world of books.

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