Catalogue of Canadian Catalogues. 5th ed.

Janet Arnett is the former campus manager of adult education at Ontario’s Georgian College. She is the author of Antiques and Collectibles: Starting Small, The Grange at Knock, and 673 Ways to Save Money.

The growth of mail orders is reflected in the growth of this
publication. In this, its 5th edition in 10 years, the number of
listings has increased fourfold. This could be because more
manufacturers are finding mail order a satisfactory means of
distribution and/or because a growing number of unemployed people have
turned entrepreneur and are trying mail order as a home-based business.

One thousand mail-order sources in 118 categories make up the heart of
the book. A brief introduction on the how-to of mail-order shopping, a
generous dash of quotable quotes, a section of ads from mail-order
suppliers, and an index complete the work.

The listing for each supplier includes the company name, address, phone
and fax numbers, logo, year founded (i.e., how long in business), brief
products list, method of payment accepted, and information on how to
order a catalogue or obtain more information.

The variety and quantity of Canadian mail-order sources is certain to
impress most readers. While not ideal for routine shopping, mail order
can be a satisfactory way to obtain unique or specialty items. The
variety of goods and services available via mail makes it a shopping
alternative for homeowners, parents, and small-business owners.