“Of course! If you can tell me which one you are looking for.”
“I’m looking for this photo book by Brodovitch titled Ballet. Published in 1945, it was a collection he took of the ballet scene in the 1930s when ballet dancers were budding across the world. Designed by the man himself, it is a rare title. I would love for you to find it,” said Ken.
“I understand. If I find it, how much will you buy it for?”
“With the cover case, $7,000 cash. Please do find it. Call me any time on this number.” And he gave me his card and reached out his hand to shake mine.
Obviously, Ken must have asked other book hunters to find Ballet.
“I’m going to find this in the best condition, at the lowest price, and faster than anyone!” I thought to myself. At that moment, I felt like I’ve just joined the race against all book hunters in New York.
“And just to let you know, there is no stock at this store. There’s a want-it list where probably over 10 people have their names on so even if it comes in, it would never sit on the shelves. By the way, I’m one of the names on the list,” laughed Ken.
That means it would be quite a miracle to find Ballet, even if I go through all the antique book stores in New York. So how can I beat all other battle-hardened book hunters to find such a rare title…? I told him, “I will find it,” so how could I do this?
If I can’t find places that sell it, I just have to find the person who has it, so I thought.
I phoned Jack and told him how I came to this search for Ballet and asked for his advice.
“First of all, you need to see it first-hand, what kind of book Ballet is, know it inside out. The key to finding a book is always inside the book. So you have to find the actual book first,” said Jack.
“So where can I get my hands on such a rare title?”
“That you need to come up with on your own. You can’t rely on others for that. You always have to start by thinking for yourself. Do your research. Then act on it. And repeat the process. Keep at it,” said Jack and gave me that word of support.
So, think on my own first. The key is always inside the book. Again, he taught me an important lesson. Thank you, Jack.
“Oh, one more word of advice. If you’re going to handle a book worth $7,000, it doesn’t have to be expensive, but you have to dress the part or you won’t gain their confidence. A cleanly pressed shirt, a proper pair of trousers. Sometimes looks or how you dress can make or break a chance for you, so you better watch out,” said Jack.
The next morning, I carefully ironed a freshly washed shirt. I pulled on a slim-fit pair of chinos and felt all ready.
The first rule of this job is to dress the part, I told myself.
Ok, this is the start of my day at work.
