Summary

"The Diary of a Bookseller" offers a captivating glimpse into the daily life of Shaun Bythell, the owner of The Bookshop in Wigtown, Scotland's National Book Town. Through his witty and candid diary entries, Bythell chronicles the highs and lows of running a second-hand bookshop, from dealing with eccentric customers and quirky staff to navigating the challenges of the modern book trade.

The diary spans a year, beginning in February, and provides a month-by-month account of Bythell's experiences. He reflects on the changing fortunes of Wigtown, once a thriving agricultural and industrial hub now revitalized by its bookshops and literary festival. Interspersed with excerpts from George Orwell's essay "Bookshop Memories," Bythell explores the realities of bookselling, contrasting the romantic ideal with the often-frustrating demands of the job.

As the diary progresses, Bythell introduces a cast of memorable characters, including Nicky, his eccentric and frugal employee; Mr. Deacon, a curt but reliable customer; and a host of other local residents and visitors who bring color and chaos to the bookshop. He grapples with the challenges of online retail, the dominance of Amazon, and the ever-present need to balance passion with profitability. The book is also punctuated by reflections of his own life, about family, relationships and fishing, which are often intertwined with his daily life as a bookseller.

The diary offers insightful commentary on the state of the book trade, the changing role of bookshops in the digital age, and the enduring power of books to connect people and communities. With its blend of humor, observations, and personal reflections, "The Diary of a Bookseller" is a must-read for book lovers, aspiring booksellers, and anyone who appreciates a good story well told.

Ultimately, this diary serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of physical bookshops as cultural hubs, despite the pressures of the digital marketplace. Bythell’s journey, filled with both frustrations and rewards, paints a vivid picture of the dedication required to keep the literary spirit alive in a small Scottish town.

The epilogue offers a brief update on the changes occurred after writing the book.