Flea Market Book Review and Giveaway!

A few weeks ago, TLC book tours contacted me about reading and reviewing this new book by Maureen Stanton -

The author shadows collector and dealer, Curt Avery, as he makes the rounds to some of America’s most famous flea markets, antique shows and auctions.  Since I love to frequent antique stores, have a few of my own quirky collections and long to visit some of the famous antique shows described in the book, I looked forward to this read.   

You can read my review below.  If the book interests you and you would like to win my copy, leave me a comment on this post. I will be "paying it forward" and mailing one of my lucky readers my copy to read and keep.

Curt began as a bottle collector when he was twelve. The thrill of the hunt had him hooked from this early age. You know that feeling. You’ve had it when you were scouring the local estate sale or flea market.  Curt quickly learns though  “half the challenge is finding that good thing, the other half is selling it.”   The author describes him as “a guerrilla historian.” He possesses a deep, self taught knowledge of America’s past and has the ability to think quickly on his feet often buying and selling his items the same day for a profit. 

Throughout the book we travel with Curt on the New England flea market circuit. Every possible space in his old pick up truck is filled with antiques. We sweat with Curt. We stress with him over whether he paid too much or could have gotten more out of a sale.  He whispers to us as other dealers make careless mistakes in the booth across the way. He introduces us to quirky characters and obsessive collectors. He complains about Martha Stewart and Country Living setting trends with their reproductions which in turn harm the value of the real deal. He tells us about his own mistakes and shares stories of the remarkable good fortunes of others who stumbled upon something worth millions stored in a basement.  

If you enjoy reading blog posts about junking trips and antique shows, if you garage sale, if you have your own booth, if you sell on Etsy…this one is right up your alley.  Don't forget to leave me a comment below if you'd like a chance to win my copy of this book. I plan to give mine away to one of my readers this week I'll announce the winner on Sunday, June 26th. xoxo  For more reviews click here.