In Search of Pipe Dreams

by Rick Newcombe, Albert Mendez (Epilogue by)

Stories of pipe-smoking's greatest craftspeople intertwine with advice and commentary in these essays on the art of pipe smoking. While exploring pipe craftsmanship worldwide, these writings combine tales of the author's visits to Europe's most prestigious pipe-makers with a look at pipe-smoking's history and the hobby's most famous practitioners, including Albert Einstein, Norman Rockwell, and Mark Twain. Interviews with Old World craftspeople provide insight into the delicate and personal craft of pipe-making, and a treatise on pipe-smoking's relaxing benefits intermingles with advice on how to smoke, buy, break in, clean, and use a pipe to cope with the frantic pace of the 21st century. Includes a 16 page color photo insert

Genres: Nonfiction

320 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2006

Reviews

[Kirk Keener · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book for wherever you are in your pipe journey.

[Dan Ray · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mr. Newcombe obviously has a great knowledge of pipes and the artisans that make them. This book would be great for anyone looking to learn about pipes and tobacco. I appreciated Mr Newcombe’s candor and honesty about his likes, yet leaving everyone else to find out what they like. My only dislike of this book was that some of the information is repeated multiple times. It as if each chapter was written as a stand alone essay without connection to the rest of the chapters. Over all a good read.

[Tomaso Frater · Rating 4 out of 5]

'In Search of Pipe Dreams' by Rick Newcombe with an introduction and epilogue by Albert Mendez is an illuminating collection of articles and commentary on pipes, pipe smoking, and both the hobby and culture of pipe collecting.

This book is equally enticing for the seasoned pipe enthusiast, who can look forward to reminiscing about a former and freer state of the hobby, and for the novice pipe smoker, who is willing to inundate themselves in technical jargon in order to understand what makes both pipes and pipe smoking desirable. I would argue that both types of readers can learn a thing or two by reading this book, which represents a literary cornucopia of niche knowledge, sprinkled with colorful adventures during trips abroad in search of pipe perfection, and cased in a genuine appreciation for the hobby and the community that engages in it.

This collection of articles and commentary was made by pipe enthusiasts, for pipe enthusiasts, and features countless pipe enthusiasts in their respective elements. I applaud the writings for being honest and abstaining from a preachy air.

The reading experience was generally pleasant and my enjoyment was only soured by getting lost in the details, becoming melancholic about a world that no longer stands open to me, and distasteful sentiments that have little to do with pipe smoking and instead originate from the personality of the author(s). Some of the same ideas that I have found abhorrent in other members of the community today are echoed in this work.

I have had the pleasure of gaining a greater appreciation for work done by hand, wood, and my own fountain pens by reading this book.

[Dave R · Rating 5 out of 5]

A true pipe smoking reverie

While this book is on the surface an homage to the finest pipes in the world, it contains a wealth of knowledge for any pipe enthusiast. I am by no means a pipe collector, but I eagerly devoured all of the knowledge the author laid out. I really want to meet this guy and sit down and smoke a pipe with him! Thank you for an amazing collection of essays!

[Richie Robertson · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was mostly about collecting, which really isn’t my thing, but there was a lot of insight and helpful takeaways. Thoroughly enjoyed it.

[Andy Fletcher · Rating 4 out of 5]

A little dated, but an absolutely wonderful read for any pipe smoker.
I listened to the audible version, which had some updated discussions. From the history of pipe smoking to tobaccos to carvers, Rick Newcombe does a great job covering this hobby with great detail and enthusiasm.

[Mike · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautifully written journey through the pipe hobby.

[Ian · Rating 4 out of 5]

An absolute MUST-READ for the pipe smoker.

[Tom · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good read, although I don't think I'll ever be able to get in the price range for the pipes described in this book there is enough substance here to keep it interesting.