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1969: A Pocketful of Rye, by A. J. Cronin
$25.00“A Pocketful of Rye” by A. J. Cronin, published in 1969, delves into the complexities of human nature and societal issues. A. J. Cronin, a Scottish physician-turned-author, gained fame for his novels that often combined elements of drama, romance, and social commentary. His works typically explore the challenges and ethical dilemmas faced by individuals against the backdrop of larger societal issues.
In “A Pocketful of Rye,” Cronin weaves a narrative that is both intimate and expansive, focusing on individual characters’ lives while also addressing broader themes such as class, social injustice, and the human condition. The novel, like many of Cronin’s works, is known for its compelling character development and intricate plot, drawing readers into a world where personal and societal conflicts intersect. The title, a reference to the well-known nursery rhyme, hints at the underlying themes of innocence, loss, and the complexities of adult life.
Cronin’s writing is often praised for its vivid descriptions, emotional depth, and the ability to capture the essence of the human spirit in its struggle against various odds. “A Pocketful of Rye,” with its engaging storyline and richly drawn characters, is a testament to his skill as a storyteller and his understanding of the human psyche. The novel remains a significant work for those interested in mid-20th-century literature and continues to be appreciated for its narrative craft and exploration of enduring themes.
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1969: Just Passing Through, by Philip Roberts
$75.00Just Passing Through, by Philip Roberts, published by Ladypress in Quebec in 1969. Limited ediiton of only 250 copies. 31 pages.
Beautiful vintage softcover issue with a dustjacket. Deckled fore-edges, 11 point Jason type. Tightly bound, no writing or markings. Slight foxing on dustjacket. A collectible edition. -
1969: Mark Twain’s Best: Eight Great Short Stories by America’s Master Humorist
$20.00Mark Twain’s Best: Eight Great Short Stories by America’s Master Humorist is a vintage paperback volume featuring a collection of humorous and thought-provoking short stories. Published by Scholastic Library Editions in 1969, this 250-page book includes classic tales such as “The Story of the Good Little Boy” and “The Diary of Adam and Eve”.
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1969: Plato, Epictus, Marcus Aurelius, edited by Charles W. Eliot
$35.00This hardcover volume features the works of Plato, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius, edited by Charles W. Eliot. The collection includes The Apology, Phaedo, and Creto of Plato, The Golden Sayings of Epictetus, and The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius, offering readers a comprehensive insight into the philosophical and ethical teachings of these ancient thinkers. The translations by Benjamin Jowett, Hastings Crossley, and George Long provide accessible and engaging interpretations of the original texts. The volume is in good condition, with moderate wear to the cover and spine, but is well-bound and free of any writing or markings.
This book offers a timeless exploration of the principles of Stoicism and the philosophical musings of some of history’s most influential figures.
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1969: Maigret and the Killer, by Georges Simenon
$45.00Maigret and the Killer is a crime fiction novel by Georges Simenon, first published in 1969. The book follows the story of Chief Inspector Maigret, who is tasked with investigating a series of murders in Paris. As he delves deeper into the case, Maigret finds himself drawn into a web of deceit and betrayal, and must use all his skills to uncover the truth behind the killings.
Simenon’s writing is known for its atmospheric descriptions of Paris, and Maigret and the Killer is no exception. The book captures the gritty, noirish feel of the city in the late 1960s, and is full of vivid characters and unexpected twists. Fans of classic crime fiction will enjoy this gripping tale of murder and intrigue, which is sure to keep them guessing until the very end.
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1969: The House on the Strand, by Daphne du Maurier (first ed, book club edition)
$39.00The House on the Strand by Daphne du Maurier is a thrilling work of fiction that takes readers on a journey through time. The story follows Richard Young, a man who has been given the opportunity to test a new drug that transports him back to the 14th century. As he becomes more and more engrossed in the past, Richard begins to lose touch with the present and the people around him. He finds himself drawn to the lives of the people he encounters in the past and becomes embroiled in their dramas and conflicts. As the drug’s effects become more intense, Richard must struggle to maintain his grip on reality and find a way back to his own time.
This book is a masterful blend of historical fiction and science fiction, with du Maurier’s signature suspenseful style keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The House on the Strand explores themes of time, identity, and the human desire to escape reality.
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1969: Doctor Zhivago, by Boris Pasternak, International Collectors Library
$135.00Doctor Zhivago is a classic Russian novel by Boris Pasternak set during the tumultuous times of 1903 to 1943 in Russia. The novel follows the life of Dr. Zhivago as he tries to maintain his humanity and spiritual integrity in a society that is divided by class, family, love, and ultimately, man’s own inner struggles. Pasternak’s portrayal of the social and moral dilemma faced by the characters is both convincing and brilliant.
This edition of Doctor Zhivago is part of the Classical Russian Novels series of the International Collectors Library. The book is beautifully bound in wine red and stamped with handsome gilt foil, replicating the design found on a rare old volume in the library of Czar Alexander II. The binding was executed by the distinguished American artist Rafael Palacios and includes a matching ribbon marker. This collectible edition is new and unread, with only a minor bent on the top cover corner. The deckled fore-edges and original inlay from ICL with presentation of the work and its binding make this edition a must-have for any collector of classic literature.
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1969: Ivanhoe, by Sir Walter Scott, International Collectors Library
$115.00Ivanhoe by Sir Walter Scott is a historical novel that has become a classic in English literature. The book is set in the 12th century and tells the story of the eponymous hero, a Saxon knight who is caught up in the conflict between the Normans and the Saxons. Ivanhoe is in love with Lady Rowena, but she is betrothed to another man. Meanwhile, the evil Prince John is plotting to take the throne from his brother, King Richard the Lionheart. Ivanhoe must use his courage and wit to fight against Prince John and his allies, including the cruel Templar knight, Brian de Bois-Guilbert. Along the way, Ivanhoe meets a cast of memorable characters, including the wise Jewish moneylender, Isaac of York, and the beautiful and brave Rebecca, who becomes Ivanhoe’s ally and love interest.
This edition of Ivanhoe is a collectible item from the International Collectors Library, with a beautiful binding designed by French master bookbinder Emile Mercier and recreated by contemporary American designer Rafael Palacios. The book has deckled fore-edges and a matching ribbon marker. The replica edition closely follows the conception of Mercier’s design, with a slate blue cover and genuine gold filigree on the front and spine. This edition is new, unopened, and unread, making it a perfect addition to any collector’s library.
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1969: The Fire-Dwellers, by Margaret Laurence
$35.00The 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.
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1969 Unveiling Man’s Origins: Ten Decades of Thought About Human Evolution, by L.S.B. Leakey and Vanne Morris Goodal
$55.00Unveiling Man’s Origins is a non-fiction book co-authored by L.S.B. Leakey and Vanne Morris Goodall. The book explores the history of human evolution and the various theories and discoveries that have shaped our understanding of our origins. The book covers ten decades of thought about human evolution, starting from the 1860s and the publication of Charles Darwin’s On the Origin of Species, up to the 1960s when the book was published.
The book is divided into chapters that cover different periods of time and different aspects of human evolution. It includes photographs and illustrations to help readers visualize the discoveries and theories discussed in the book. Unveiling Man’s Origins is a comprehensive and informative book that provides readers with a detailed understanding of the history of human evolution and the various scientific discoveries that have contributed to our knowledge of our origins.
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1969: Arundel, by Kenneth Roberts, International Collectors Library
$50.00Arundel by Kenneth Roberts is a historical fiction novel set during the early days of the American Revolution. The story follows Benedict Arnold and his army of colonials as they make their way through the Maine wilderness towards Quebec. The author’s meticulous attention to historical detail is evident in his descriptions of the exact locations of barricades, defending forces, and houses in old Quebec at the time of Arnold’s attack. The novel is not only an engaging story but also a fresh and shrewd approach to pre-Revolutionary American history.
The International Collectors Library edition of Arundel is bound in wine red with a pronounced grain and features a cover design by celebrated American artist and designer Rafael Palacios. The design includes original arrangements of lines and geometric forms that reflect the dynamic impact of twentieth-century literature upon the culture and thinking of our times. The volume is stamped in genuine 24K gold on the cover and spine and features coated gold top edges and a matching ribbon marker. The clean, uncluttered design and attention to detail make this edition a beautiful addition to any collection.