Yesterday, I sat down once again with the printer and Chanishka our book designer to discuss changes and improvements based on the digital proof copy of Thomia, which I proudly showed off to you on the last day of last year (see ‘It’s Real’, 31 Dec 2024).
Among the differences will be the cover finish. It will change from the blue paper laminate shown in the photo to a dressier and much more durable board-backed black fabric finish. The slipcase remains the same, so we’ll now have a spiffy blue-black-and-blue effect with the book spines inside the case.
We were able to effect this and other improvements without any additional costs incurred, which means that the price of Thomia remains unchanged. However, I’m afraid the same isn’t true with regard to timing. Such are the exigencies of the printing business that the few days’ extra we’ve taken to make these changes mean the launch of the book will now have to be deferred by a month. I’d been hoping to launch Thomia in the first week of February, in time for Old Boys’ Day and also, perhaps, a few on-the-spot sales on the margins of the Galle Literary Festival. Out of the question now, I’m afraid; but I’m assured by the printers that the books will certainly be ready some days before the end of February. Keeping in mind a certain key date in the Thomian calendar, which normally falls in the second week of March, the plan now is to hold the book launch in the first week of March; if possible, we’ll start delivering copies to advance purchasers even earlier.
We might still have made the earlier deadline if I’d rushed things a bit. Having worked so hard on this book for so many years, though, the last thing I want to do is spoil Thomia by making hurried compromises at the final stage. So my apologies for keeping you waiting – and believe me, I am quite as frustrated by the delay as any of you – but I think the extra 30 days or so will be time well spent.
Now for the good news. The current pre-publication special price of Rs 19,990.00 per copy will apply for a further 30 days or so. If you haven't placed your order yet, you now have a bit more time to do so. But don’t wait too long: tempus fugit – especially for Royalists and Thomians at this time of year.
Excelsior!
Richard
Whatever it is Richard. No worries, we shall wait. Been worth it . It's going to be great.
I think it's a great idea to launch the sales during the Royal-Thomian match when the "Old Boys" will be at the pitch of their Esto Perpetua fever!!!