I’m always thrilled when a first edition gets a second life, but you’ve got to keep a sober eye on the provenance. Marginalia on page 12 can be a goldmine, yet it’s easy for modern collectors to romanticize a stray doodle as a personal note. Check the ownership chain: each transfer should be documented, preferably in an archival record or a reputable auction house. If the book’s been in the same family line, that’s a strong signal, but a sudden appearance in a high‑profile private sale can raise red flags. In short, don’t let the hype of a viral trend drown out the book’s actual lineage; a careful audit of the provenance will save you from a story that’s all smoke and no smoke.