Elizabeth Jennings, author of THE BUTTON COLLECTOR

Years ago, I began writing a novel based on a family’s collection of discarded buttons because I liked the idea of small, tangible items telling stories that weave together to form a larger truth.

At the time, I had no idea how many button aficionados exist in this world.  Or how devoted they are.  Or talented.  Or insightful.  Since then, I’ve come across countless button jewelers, button crafters, and button florists who create objects of beauty ranging from whimsical earrings to festive bridal bouquets.  I’ve discovered artists who transform buttons into complex, sophisticated mosaics, mandalas, and even sculptures.  I’ve become aware of clubs and organizations just for button collectors, including The National Button Society, which is made up of 3000 serious collectors who research buttons as historical artifacts.

Button fans, it would seem, are legion.  But beyond the hard-core button contingent is an…