Maldives luxury resort seeks a bookseller

Philip Blackwell, founder of the Ultimate Library company, is recruiting a bookseller to work in a remote bookshop in the Maldives.

The post is based in the luxury eco resort of Soneva Fushi and the successful applicant will have to have to write a blog about the life of a desert island bookseller, entertain children with storytelling, and host creative writing courses, as well as sell books.

Blackwell, a descendent of the Blackwell bookselling family, told the Guardian: “The pay is derisory but the fringe benefits unparalleled. The role will evolve and it is in part up to you to make the most of this unique opportunity. It’s a dream job for many people. If I was 25 again I would do it.”

Anyone interested in applying should have “a passion for books, the ability to engage guests of all ages”, be able to entertain children with storytelling and host creative writing courses for guests.

“We want someone on the ground who is creative and inspiring and can maybe get more people to share the pleasure of reading, which is what people enjoy doing on holiday.”

Blackwell founded Ultimate Library in 2007 to improve hotels’ book collections by creating bespoke collections of titles, and works with hotel groups such as Rocco Forte Hotels, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, J W Marriott and Jumeirah.

The shop in the Maldives will stock a mix of books that reflect the local environment, as well as some that reflect the interests of wealthy tourists. “They are highly educated, enquiring people who want to relax and get away from things but also think a bit and better themselves,” Blackwell said.

For more details see www.soneva.com and www.ultimatelibrary.co.uk and then write to pb@ultimatelibrary.co.uk">pb@ultimatelibrary.co.uk.