Dear Diary

"My Diary - Please respect it": So wrote the photographer Margaret Bourke-White at the beginning of her hand-written diary. And respect it we do! We cover a lot of ground in this episode exploring diaries, notes, and documents written without an eye to a future audience. Through the diary of a Revolutionary War soldier to the journals of an Apple Executive, we explore the strange accidental nature of these witnesses to history. And of course we have to discuss the diaries of Samuel Pepys - but more for their strong influence on Virginia Woolf, James Joyce, and modernism. 

Special guest: Rick Stattler, of Swann Galleries. 

As always, feel free to reach out to us with any questions or comments at: [e-mail]

Enjoy the show! 

What is Rare Book Chat?

Dive deep into the fascinating world of rare books with Rare Book Chat. Hosted by Michael DiRuggiero and Jeremy O'Connor, the co-founders of The Manhattan Rare Book Company, this podcast explores the unique and often valuable items that fill the world of rare books, manuscripts, letters, photographs, archives, and more.

From historical documents to literary first editions, we'll discuss the stories behind these one-of-a-kind treasures. Join us as we explore the intricacies of the rare book trade and discover the hidden gems that await.