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Writer Maynard “Buzz” Poole ’99 recently published Playing Cards, an eight-chapter book featuring a collection of 300 cards printed during the 1930s and 1940s.
The book contains six categories of cards: kaleidoscope, animals, bygone eras, gardens of delight, quirky cards, and jokers wild. Each category is accompanied by information regarding the artist, design work, and style.
“I let the eclectic graphic design of the playing cards inspire my commentary,” says Poole. “Each and every card also speaks to the culture at large, so there was no shortage of material to ‘riff’ on.”
As managing editor for Mark Batty Publisher in West New York, N.J., Poole oversees all editorial aspects of publishing from pitch to product. Since no two books can be handled the same way, Poole admits he has to stay on his toes but finds that it also keeps his work interesting.
Additionally, Poole contributes to San Francisco Chronicle Book Review, Kitchen Sink Magazine, EastBay Express, and Redsnap Magazine.He received the 2004 Best Anthology Award at the Do It Yourself Book Festival.
Poole enjoyed taking classes with D.C. Jackson, associate professor of history. As an English major, he was inspired by Bryan Washington and Ian Smith, associate professors of English.
“I had always been a serious reader and fan of literature, but they showed me that it was a pursuit worthy of being passionate about.”