‘Enchanting…this book, like any good whodunit, rewards rereading.’

‘A ripping yarn with more twists and turns than a funfair hall of mirrors.’

‘[An] entertaining and insightful history…this book is a veritable treasure trove.‘

‘A comprehensive history lightened by quirky details and fascinating trivia’

‘Entrancing…[Robyn Annear’s] interest in cast-off clothes and other possessions is personal and passionate, and she gently, deliciously guides the reader through the history of second-hand.‘

‘[Nothing New] is Robyn’s adventure into our pre-loved past, a crate-crawl through public records. Rather than writing a history of who’s who, Annear goes underground to tabulate what was what, and how much it cost. Curling tongs and grape scissors, ivory fans and ormolu clocks – the book is a flotsam inventory, complete with quirky stories, and old words in a new light.’

‘[A] light, engaging read that anyone with an interest in history and a nose for a bargain will enjoy.’

‘Annear tackles her sprawling subject matter with her trademark wit and her knack for singling out the perfect historical reference. Nothing New is one of those books that will annoy the hell out of anyone who isn’t actually reading it because you can’t help but blurt out, ‘‘Listen to this bit’’.’

‘Robyn Annear makes the saga of re-used, preloved, recycled trash and treasure an enriching, entertaining, addictive read.’