This 2010 take on a classic cartoon scenario is about as culturally insensitive as we get at A&J, I hope. I’m going to mention the book clearance one last time today, but stick around! I promise this gets interesting. First, the spiel: Embarrassingly, there still are a few new hardback copies of “Beaucoup Arlo & Janis” left. This is true partly because I innocently underestimated the remaining stock. There were closer to four dozen than the announced three, but the supply is dwindling, and I need the space in my newly rearranged office. Of course, the pocket money isn’t terrible, either. Wait! We’re not to the interesting part yet. So, this will be your last chance to purchase this book new, and you must use the link below. Now, the interesting part. Back in 1989, a small paperback reprint book of the earliest A&J strips, called “Bop Till You Drop,” was published. At the time, it sold so poorly that no outside publisher has touched me since. Today, on Amazon, there are three used copies of BTYD, beginning at $1,000 and ranging to $10,000. I looked up that last listing, thinking it was a joke or some idiot’s fantasy, but it comes from a legitimate rare book dealer in Washington state. (I’ll bet they’d take $8,000.) Am I saying “Beaucoup Arlo & Janis” would ever be selling for such numbers? Noooo, I’m not saying that! Used copies of BA&J can be had on Amazon for a mere $120.
