The Wilbur Smith Discussion Forums

Hi Folks,

I'm trying to figure out how to get a signed copy of any Wilbur Smith book as a gift for my father-in-law, who is a longtime fan. On Wilbur's web site, in the FAQ section, Wilbur offers: "I will happily sign a bookplate, but not books themselves" and then proceeds to provide an address to send your bookplates. What is a bookplate and how do I get one? He also requires that you enclose a "pre-paid international postage voucher". Where does one get one of these vouchers? I thought you could only purchase postage in the country of origin, and since I'm not in the UK, how would I get a pre-paid voucher with UK postage?

Thanks for any tips,
John

Hi John!

Bookplates are like labels . I guess WS signs a bookplate/label & sends it to you, & you paste it into your book

As for the postage issue, I think you can arrange for international return postage at your Post Office, where-ever you are. It shouldn't be that big of an issue

You might want to try ebay for signed copies that are on sale, but they can be quite expensive!

Hi John, ebay's definately your best bet - just do a search for "signed Wilbur Smith" - I got 11 results. If there aren't any on the USA one then try the UK ebay - most people will post to the US for a charge.

HTH

Matt

Thanks Matt and Nefer for the suggestions. I'm definitely looking for a personalized Wilbur Smith book, signed to my father-in-law, so I won't find that on eBay. I'm still stuck on where to get bookplates? If Wilbur talks about them on his web site as the only means by which he will sign something by mail, I'm surprised it isn't obvious where to find blank bookplates for sale...
Thanks,
John

Lol...I guess you'd have to be very lucky to get one of those on Ebay. If you can wait 8-10 months WS will be doing a publicity tour for his next book - I'm sure if you go along and buy a book you'll get what you're after.

As for buying bookplates, well you could go to an "old style" bookshop or a craft shop. TBH, I'de be tempted to just send a piece of high quality paper or a postcard trimmed to the correct size.

Matbow wrote: TBH, I'de be tempted to just send a piece of high quality paper or a postcard trimmed to the correct size.

Yep, or you can design your own.

Here's an example of what one looks like. The webpage also has additional info about International Reply Coupons.