Ike Ong: The Bookseller Who Built a Secondhand Book Empire 2026

Ike Ong, the redoubtable bookseller who co-founded Skoob Books and expanded secondhand bookshops across the globe, has died aged 74. His life story is one of optimism, creativity, and a deep love for the written word, leaving an indelible mark on the world of bookselling.

Early Days and the Birth of Skoob Books

In 1979, Ike Ong co-founded Skoob Books, a secondhand bookshop that began in a Covent Garden lockup previously used for market wheelbarrows. This humble start marked the beginning of a bookselling journey that would span decades and continents.

After a falling out between the partners—stories vary—Ike took the reins and ran Skoob Books for the next 25 years. Selling general and academic secondhand books was no mean feat, especially with commercial rents rising significantly at each review. Yet Ike's optimism, characteristic of those who grew up in the 1960s, drove him forward.

Expansion and Global Reach

In 1981, Skoob moved to Sicilian Avenue in Holborn, central London, where Ike opened a second shop specialising in antiquarian and foreign study books. This was followed by three more shops in Singapore, Brisbane, and Kuala Lumpur, cementing his reputation as a bookseller with international vision.

Ike's entrepreneurial spirit and passion for books allowed him to navigate the challenges of the book trade, turning a small lockup into a global network of secondhand bookshops.

Publishing Ventures and Literary Impact

From 1987 onwards, Ike embarked on a new adventure in publishing. He produced a guide to UK secondhand bookshops, followed by volumes of esoterica and anthologies of Malaysian literature written in English. It is perhaps with these books that he had his most lasting impact.

His anthologies brought Malaysian literature in English to a wider audience, showcasing voices that might otherwise have remained unheard. This contribution to literary culture is a testament to his dedication to the written word. The background to this story is set out in AI Firms Suspected in Bulk Secondhand Book Orders. A related thread runs through AI Firms Suspected in Bulk Orders of Secondhand Books.

Foray into Film and Historical Re-enactment

Towards the end of the century, Ike's burgeoning interest in films led him to make some of his own, particularly documentary and historical re-enactment. His works included History in Action for English Heritage and Twilight of the Longhouse, the latter shown at various venues. Earlier coverage in AI Book Destruction Threatens Rare Titles: Australian Booksellers shows how the argument developed. A closer look at the same subject appears in Business: latest articles.

These films reflected his curiosity and desire to capture history in action, further demonstrating his creative energy and gravitas. Anyone following the wider picture can start with Ryu Murakami, Cult Japanese Author, Dies at 74. The same theme surfaces in Netanyahu Accused of Smear Tactics to Cling to Power After Election, which takes a different angle.

Key Takeaways from Ike Ong's Life

• Co-founded Skoob Books in 1979, growing it into a global chain of secondhand bookshops.
• Ran Skoob Books for 25 years, overcoming rising rents and challenges in the book trade.
• Expanded with shops in London, Singapore, Brisbane, and Kuala Lumpur.
• Published a guide to UK secondhand bookshops and anthologies of Malaysian literature in English.
• Produced documentary and historical re-enactment films, including History in Action and Twilight of the Longhouse.

Comparing Ike Ong's Business Ventures

Frequently Asked Questions

Legacy and What to Watch Next

Ike Ong's legacy lives on through the bookshops he founded, the books he published, and the films he created. His story is a reminder of the power of optimism and creativity in business.

As the book industry continues to evolve, the model of secondhand bookselling that Ike championed remains relevant, offering affordable access to knowledge and culture. His contributions to Malaysian literature in English also highlight the importance of diverse voices in publishing.

For those inspired by Ike's journey, the world of secondhand books offers endless opportunities to connect with readers and preserve literary heritage. His life serves as a testament to the impact one person can have on the world of books.