Philatelic Novel Recommendations from Our Library
Did you know that our library has a philatelic fiction collection, in addition to all our wonderful works of nonfiction? This section may be small, but we are proud to hold this fascinating group of popular books that feature stamps and postal history. Why not to take a break from your rigorous philatelic research and dive into a new world of exciting philatelic stories?
Every book on this list is in our library and available for check out. If you’d like to borrow one of these books please stop by during our open hours, or send us an email at library@greenefoundation.ca! We would also love to hear from you about your favourite stampy novels - perhaps we will add them to our shelves!
Antigua Penny Puce by Robert Graves (1936)
This tale of sibling rivalry revolves around a fictitious Antiguan stamp. This imagined stamp features a portrait of George VI and three pigs eating at a trough.
Equal parts humourous political allegory and parable of colonialism, the plots and schemes of the siblings in this book are sure to intrigue and amuse readers.
Post Office by Charles Bukowski (1971)
Bukowski’s first novel, Post Office, is autobiographical fiction following a down-and-out man working for the United States Postal Service in 1970s Los Angeles. Opening with a Code of Ethics memo from the Postmaster, this book has Bukowski’s dark and desperate humour on display. This is a character-driven story, full of nihilist musings and bad decisions, and perfect for anyone who loves an anti-hero.
On the Road: The Quest for Stamps by Stephen R. Datz (1991)
Written with philatelists at its heart, On the Road is a book based on the author’s experiences travelling across the United States for stamp bourses and shows from 1961 through 1985. Full of tongue-in-cheek jokes, zany situations, and philatelic references, this book is sure to get you looking forward to this year’s stamp show calendar!
Going Postal by Terry Pratchett (2004)
The only fantasy novel on this list, Pratchett’s Going Postal follows the reestablishment and revitalisation of the post office in the city-state of Ankh-Morpork on Discworld by reformed con man Moist von Lipwig. With mail taking on a life of its own, mysterious deaths, and assassination attempts, this book will keep you engaged and curious to learn more about the world and its postal system. As a cherry on top for philatelists, the story also follows our hero as he designs the post office’s first postage stamp.
The Mysterious Flame of Queen Loana by Umberto Eco (2005)
A unique “illustrated novel” by the author of The Name of the Rose, this story follows a rare book dealer as he pieces his life together after losing his memories. This charming work is a celebration of ephemera, and while the book does not entirely revolve around philately, the main character uses postage stamps as a tool in the reconstruction of his memories. Moving and wholly unique, this book is sure to have you looking at your own collection in a new light.
— Natalie Mitchell
Library Manager, Greene Foundation