-
1932: The Path of the King, by John Buchan
The Path of the King by John Buchan is a historical fiction novel set in the 6th century, following the story of a young man named Colgrim who rises to power and becomes a king. The novel explores themes of leadership, loyalty, and sacrifice as Colgrim navigates the treacherous political landscape of his time. Along the way, he encounters a cast of memorable characters, including a wise old monk and a fierce warrior princess.
This vintage edition of the book is a beautiful miniature hardcover volume, complete with gilt ornamentation and lettering on the cover and spine. Despite some wear and tear, it remains in good condition and would make a wonderful addition to any book collection.
-
1948: The Jungle Books, by Rudyard Kipling, vol. I, Illustrated by Aldren Watson
The Jungle Books, volume I, by Rudyard Kipling is a classic piece of children’s literature that has been enjoyed for generations. This vintage edition, published in 1948 by Doubleday & Company, Inc., features beautiful illustrations by Aldren Watson and an introduction by Nelson Doubleday. The hardcover volume is in near fine condition, with only slight signs of wear on the dust jacket and a mended spine. The book is tightly bound and free of any owner marks or writing.
The Jungle Books tells the story of Mowgli, a young boy who is raised by wolves in the jungle. Along the way, he meets a variety of animal characters, including Baloo the bear and Bagheera the panther, who help him navigate the dangers of the jungle and learn important life lessons. The book is a timeless classic that teaches children about the importance of friendship, loyalty, and bravery.
$65.00 -
1975: A Farewell to Arms, by Ernest Hemingway, The John Player Special Collection
A Farewell to Arms, by Ernest Hemingway, is a classic novel set during World War I. The story follows an American ambulance driver named Frederic Henry, who falls in love with a British nurse named Catherine Barkley. As the war rages on, Frederic and Catherine struggle to maintain their relationship amidst the chaos and destruction around them. The novel explores themes of love, war, and the human condition, and is considered one of Hemingway’s greatest works.
The John Player Special Collection edition of A Farewell to Arms, published in 1975, features a black hardcover volume with silver lettering on the cover and spine. The book is in very good condition, with only slight wear on the dustjacket around the edges and corners. The pages have yellowed over time, but the volume is tightly bound and contains no writing or markings.
-
1953 1st ed.: The Scribner Treasury, 22 Classic Tales
The Scribner Treasury, 22 Classic Tales is a vintage storybook published by Charles Scribner’s Sons in 1953. The book includes 22 classic tales that were first published by Scribner between the 1880s and 1931. The volume is introduced and noted by J.G.E. Hopkins and features works by renowned authors such as Sir James Barrie, George W. Cable, John Galsworthy, and Robert Herrick, among others. The blue hardcover cloth volume has gilt lettering and red ornamentation on the spine, and the fore edges are beautifully deckled. Although there is some scratching on the cover and minor staining on the inside cover, there are no writing or similar markings in the book.
$75.00 -
1924: Hans Brinker or The Silver Skates, by Mary Mapes Dodge
Hans Brinker or The Silver Skates is a classic children’s novel by Mary Mapes Dodge, first published in 1865. The story is set in the Netherlands and follows the adventures of Hans Brinker, a young boy who dreams of winning a pair of silver skates in a local skating race. Along the way, Hans and his family face many challenges, including poverty, illness, and the loss of a loved one. Despite these obstacles, Hans remains determined to achieve his goal and help his family. The novel is a heartwarming tale of perseverance, family, and the power of hope.
This early edition of Hans Brinker features many drawings by Louis Rhead and is in a very good condition for its age. The cloth hardcover volume has a paper illustration on the cover, and while there is some wear and rubbing present on the cover, including the corners, there is no writing in the book. Some minor foxing, as well as fading/yellowing to pages due to age is present, as well occasional vintage fingerprints throughout the book. The thick, quality paper and top edges painted yellow add to the charm of this classic novel.
-
1945: A Lion Is in the Streets, by Adria Locke Langley
A Lion Is in the Streets, written by Adria Locke Langley, is a political fiction novel set in the year 1945. The story follows the rise of a charismatic politician named Hank Martin, who uses his charm and cunning to become the governor of Louisiana. However, as he gains more power and influence, Martin’s true nature is revealed, and he becomes a corrupt and dangerous leader. The novel explores themes of ambition, power, and the corrupting influence of politics, as well as the impact of World War II on American society.
This early printing of the novel features a green hardcover with gilt lettering on the spine. Despite some wear and fading due to age, the book is in good condition and contains no writing or markings. The deckled fore-edges add to the vintage charm of the book.
-
1824: De La Philosophie Morale, ou Des Differens Systemes sur la Science de la Vie, par Joseph Droz, seconde edition
De La Philosophie Morale, ou Des Differens Systemes sur la Science de la Vie is an iconic work by Joseph Droz, a French philosopher who lived during the French Revolution. The book argues that society can only be in a proper state if individuals are educated to prioritize their duties over their rights. This doctrine earned Droz the Montyon Prize in 1823 and admission to the Académie française. The second edition of the book, published in 1924, is a hardcover volume with marbled boards and brown leather spine and edges. Despite some rubbing and wear to the corners, the book is in very good condition for its age, with little overall fading or yellowing to the pages.
-
1960: The High Crusade, by Poul Anderson – Baen Books
The High Crusade by Poul Anderson is a vintage science fiction novel published in 1960. The story is set in medieval England and follows the adventures of a group of knights who are abducted by aliens from a distant planet. The knights, led by Sir Roger, manage to take control of the alien spaceship and decide to use it to conquer the alien planet. Along the way, they encounter various challenges and obstacles, including a hostile alien race and a traitor in their midst. The novel is a humorous and satirical take on the traditional medieval knight tale, with elements of science fiction and adventure.
-
1900s: A Gypsy Against Her Will, or Worth Her Weight in Gold, by Emma Leslie
A Gypsy Against Her Will, or Worth Her Weight in Gold is a children’s book written by Emma Leslie and published by Blackie and Son Limited in the early 1900s. The book tells the story of a young gypsy girl who is taken against her will and sold into slavery. The protagonist, named Zillah, is forced to work in a circus and endure mistreatment from her captors. However, she remains resilient and determined to escape and return to her family.
The book is a classic tale of perseverance and the strength of the human spirit. It also sheds light on the mistreatment of gypsies and the prevalence of slavery during the early 1900s.
-
1899: A Child’s Garden of Verses, by R. L. Stevenson
A Child’s Garden of Verses by R.L. Stevenson is a classic children’s book that has been enjoyed by generations of young readers. This early rare edition, stated as the fifth, is beautifully illustrated by Charles Robinson and published by John Lane in London. The green cloth hardcover volume features gilt stamped ornamentation and lettering on the cover and spine, with some wear and rubbing around the edges and corners. The gilt is partially rubbed off on the spine, and there is wear on the back cover, especially around the bottom. The end papers show foxing and a thin tear where the front and back end papers attach to the spine. The top, bottom, and fore edges are gilt, and there are no writing or similar markings anywhere in the book. However, there are several instances of age and “finger print” type stains, mostly in the margins, and several pages are separating from the spine. Despite these minor flaws, the overall condition of the book is good.
$500.00 -
1983 Captured Memories: A History of Alsask and Surrounding School Districts
Captured Memories: A History of Alsask and Surrounding School Districts is a non-fiction book that delves into the history of Alsask, a town in Canada, and its surrounding school districts. The book is written by the Alsask History Book Committee and was first published in 1983. It is a large, orange cloth hardcover volume with black decoration and lettering printed on the cover and spine. The book contains 488 pages and is filled with black-and-white photographs, maps, and more.
The book provides a detailed account of the history of Alsask and its inhabitants. It covers various school districts in the area, including Bonnie Brier, Clifton Bank, Eastside, Lloyd George, Merid, Roslyn, Stoneyhurst, Westside, and Wolf Willow. This is an excellent read for anyone interested in Canadian history.
-
1948: Dead Souls by Nikolai Vasilievich Gogol
Dead Souls by Nikolai Vasilievich Gogol is a classic novel that tells the story of a man named Chichikov who travels around Russia buying the “dead souls” of serfs who have died but are still listed as alive on the census. Chichikov’s plan is to use these dead souls as collateral to secure a loan, but his scheme is complicated by the corrupt officials and landowners he encounters along the way. The novel is a satirical commentary on the social and political realities of 19th century Russia, and Gogol’s vivid characters and humorous writing style make it a memorable and entertaining read.
This edition of Dead Souls, translated by C.J. Hogarth and published by J.N. Dent & Sons LTD in 1948, includes an introduction by John Cournos and is part of the Everyman’s Library series. The book is in good condition despite its age, with a slightly rubbed and faded red cloth hardcover and no dust jacket.
$75.00 -
1949 3rd Impression: Painting as a Pastime, by Winston S. Churchill
Painting as a Pastime is a collection of essays discussing Churchill’s personal experience with painting as a hobby and the benefits it can bring to one’s life.
The book is a vintage hardcover with gilt lettering on the cover and spine. It is in very good condition, with only slight fading and foxing on the edges. The book is well bound and contains 18 colored plates, making it a valuable addition to any art lover’s collection.
$105.00 -
1948: Raintree County, by Ross Lockridge, Jr
Raintree County by Ross Lockridge Jr. is a historical fiction novel set in the titular Raintree County, Indiana, during the mid-19th century. The story follows John Shawnessy, a young man who dreams of writing a great American novel, as he navigates his way through love, war, and the complexities of life in a rapidly changing America. The novel spans over 1000 pages and includes illustrations and maps to help readers visualize the setting and characters.
Raintree County is a sweeping epic that captures the spirit of America during a time of great change and upheaval. Through the eyes of its protagonist, Lockridge explores themes of love, loss, and the pursuit of the American dream, all set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing country.
$90.00 -
1967 The Naked Ape: A Zoologists Study of the Human Animal, by Desmond Morris, McGrawHill
The Naked Ape: A Zoologist’s Study of the Human Animal by Desmond Morris, first published in 1967. The book explores human behavior and society from a zoological perspective, examining the ways in which humans are similar to and different from other animals. Morris argues that humans are essentially animals, and that many of our behaviors and social structures can be explained by looking at our evolutionary history.
The book covers a wide range of topics, including human sexuality, aggression, communication, and culture. Morris uses examples from both human and animal behavior to illustrate his points, and he challenges many commonly-held beliefs about human nature. The Naked Ape was a controversial book when it was first published, but it quickly became a best-seller and has since become a classic of popular science writing.
-
1978 People of the Lake: Mankind and its Beginnings, Richard E. Leakey, Roger Lewin
People of the Lake: Mankind and its Beginnings is a non-fiction book written by Richard E. Leakey and Roger Lewin. The book explores the origins of mankind and the evolution of human beings from their earliest beginnings. The authors draw on their extensive knowledge of anthropology and archaeology to present a comprehensive and engaging account of human evolution, from the emergence of the first hominids to the development of modern humans. The book is filled with photographs and illustrations that help to bring the story of human evolution to life.
The book is divided into several sections, each of which focuses on a different aspect of human evolution. The authors discuss the discovery of early hominid fossils, the development of stone tools, the emergence of language, and the spread of human beings across the globe. They also explore the social and cultural aspects of human evolution, including the development of art, religion, and music. Overall, People of the Lake is a fascinating and informative book that provides a detailed and engaging account of the origins of mankind.
-
1948: The Golden Warrior, by Hope Muntz, Chatto and Windus, London
The Golden Warrior by Hope Muntz is a historical fiction novel set in post-World War II England. The story follows the lives of two families, the aristocratic Chalfonts and the working-class Smiths, as they navigate the changing social and political landscape of the time. Against the backdrop of the impending wedding of Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip, the characters grapple with issues of class, love, and loyalty. The novel offers a vivid portrayal of the era, with detailed descriptions of fashion, music, and societal norms.
-
1969: The Fire-Dwellers, by Margaret Laurence
The Fire-Dwellers, written by Margaret Laurence, is a novel that explores the complexities of family relationships and the struggles of a woman trying to find her place in the world. The story follows Stacey MacAindra, a mother of four who is dealing with the challenges of raising a family and maintaining a sense of self. Stacey’s husband, Mac, is a successful businessman who is often away on business trips, leaving Stacey to manage the household and deal with her own feelings of isolation and frustration. As Stacey navigates the ups and downs of family life, she begins to question her own identity and the choices she has made.
Set in the late 1960s, The Fire-Dwellers is a powerful reflection of the social and cultural changes of the time. Through Stacey’s experiences, Laurence explores themes of feminism, motherhood, and the search for personal fulfillment. The novel is beautifully written, with vivid descriptions of the Canadian landscape and a deep understanding of human emotions.
-
1986: A Door into Ocean, a Science Fiction Novel by Joan Slonczewski
A Door into Ocean is a science fiction novel written by Joan Slonczewski and published in 1986. The story takes place on the planet of Shora, which is entirely covered by water and inhabited by a race of women called Sharers. The Sharers possess the ability to manipulate the ocean and its creatures, and they live in harmony with their environment. However, their peaceful existence is threatened when a group of male colonizers from the planet Valedon arrive and attempt to exploit the planet’s resources.
The novel explores themes of feminism, environmentalism, and the consequences of colonialism. It also delves into the complex relationships between different species and the importance of empathy and understanding. A Door into Ocean is a thought-provoking and engaging read that challenges readers to consider their own relationship with the natural world.
$35.00 -
1973 Pentimento: A Book of Portraits, by Lillian Hellman
Pentimento: A Book of Portraits is a collection of memoirs and personal essays that offer a glimpse into the author’s life and the people she encountered throughout her career. The title, Pentimento, refers to the art technique of painting over a previous layer to reveal a hidden image, which is used as a metaphor for the process of remembering and reflecting on one’s past.
The book includes portraits of several notable figures, including Hellman’s former lover, writer Dashiell Hammett, and her friend, the painter Arthur Gold. Hellman also writes about her experiences during the McCarthy era, when she was blacklisted for her political beliefs. Pentimento received critical acclaim for its insightful and candid portrayal of the author’s life and the people who influenced her.