"The Romance of Book-Collecting" by J. Herbert Slater is a non-fiction work written in the late 19th century. The book delves into the art and passion of book-collecting, exploring the intricacies and nuances of the practice, including the significance of sale catalogues and the thrill of the search for rare volumes. It appeals to bibliophiles and anyone fascinated by the history and value of literature. The opening of the book elaborates on the value of antiquated sale catalogues, which are often dismissed as junk, but can provide a wealth of insight and intrigue for those with a passion for books. Slater highlights the unique finds that book collectors can encounter, even amidst seemingly worthless items. He recounts anecdotes about collectors who have chased and discovered rare books, emphasizing the sentimentality and personal connection that come with collecting. Overall, the beginning sets an engaging tone for exploring the world of book-collecting, laying the foundation for further discussions on the topic. (This is an automatically generated summary.)