John R. Cumbow

Have you ever wondered what it was like to live in an older time?

I have. More than once, while reading a historical novel or watching a movie, I've thought to myself, "I was born into this world a century too late."

All my life I've been a reader, writer, artist and collector. Books are one of my favorite collections. Through them I can travel to distant worlds or ancient times, live the life of a sailor or a spy, a king or a courtier, millionaire or a thief.

Through books I can learn how to craft jewelry or blow glass. I can learn to cook or hunt, garden or forage for wild plants.

My reading interests range far and wide. And the books I have published reflect some of that diversity.

One of my passions is seeking out lost and long forgotten titles I think still have a message for modern times. My ongoing project is to republish all 10 volumes of "The Book of Wealth" by Hubert Howe Bancroft. Originally published in 1896, the set was produced in very limited editions and offered only to the wealthy elite of Victorian society.

Long out of print, the books presented a history of wealth and civilization, from ancient to modern (circa 1890) times. Fascinating to read, "The Book of Wealth" shows again and again how empires were created, then destroyed by visionary, benevolent, misguided, selfish or foolish rulers.

It has been said that those who do not study history are destined to repeat it. These books surely demonstrate that idea.

What do you think?