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Two Souls by Maksim Haretski, translated by Olya Ianovskaia
$19.00First published in 1919, the novel offers a vivid portrayal of class struggles and a bold critique of Bolshevism, which led to its suppression for many years. Two Souls provides a critical lens through which to view the era’s political and social dynamics.
The present translation was undertaken with meticulous effort to retain the original flow and linguistic style of the novel. Every effort was made to stay as true to the original as possible, ensuring that the nuances and depth of Maksim Haretski’s work are preserved for English-speaking readers.
This is the first translation of the novel into the English language.
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1870s: Lord Lytton’s Works – 16 Volumes
$1,500.00Bulwer-Lytton’s works are characterized by their richly detailed narratives, exploring themes of love, power, ambition, and societal norms. He was adept at blending elements of the Gothic, historical fiction, and science fiction, which allowed him to reach a broad audience and influence the development of these genres. Notably, he is credited with popularizing the phrase “the pen is mightier than the sword” in his play “Richelieu; Or the Conspiracy” (1839).
Among his most celebrated novels are:
- “The Last Days of Pompeii” (1834): Set in the final days of Pompeii before the city is destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, this novel combines historical detail with a compelling narrative of love, betrayal, and fate.
- “Eugene Aram” (1832): A novel based on the true story of an 18th-century English scholar convicted of murder, exploring themes of guilt, redemption, and the pursuit of knowledge.
- “Paul Clifford” (1830): Famous for its opening line, “It was a dark and stormy night,” this novel delves into the life of its titular character, from his upbringing in the criminal underworld to his eventual reformation.
- “The Last of the Barons” (1843): A historical novel set during the Wars of the Roses, focusing on the power struggle between King Edward IV and the Earl of Warwick.
- “The Coming Race” (1871): An early science fiction novel that explores the concept of a subterranean world inhabited by an advanced society, known as the Vril-ya. This work has been influential in speculative fiction, exploring themes of utopia, technology, and superhuman powers.
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Youth: A Narrative, by Joseph Conrad, with notes by Ethel M. Sealey
$25.00“Youth: A Narrative” is a short story by Joseph Conrad, first published in 1898. It is often regarded as a semi-autobiographical work that delves into themes of adventure, youthful optimism, and the harsh realities of life at sea, which were familiar to Conrad from his own experiences. The story is narrated by Charles Marlow, a character who appears in several of Conrad’s other works, most notably in “Heart of Darkness” and “Lord Jim.”
The narrative of “Youth” centers around Marlow recounting his first voyage to the East as a young man aboard the Judea, a ship destined for Bangkok. The journey is beset with misfortunes: from carrying a seemingly cursed cargo of coal to encountering disastrous weather conditions, the voyage epitomizes the challenges and unpredictability of life at sea. Despite these hardships, the story is imbued with a sense of excitement and invincibility that often accompanies youth. Marlow reflects on these experiences with a sense of nostalgia and longing for the days of his youth, marked by an unshakeable belief in the future and a readiness to face the unknown.
Conrad’s narrative style in “Youth” is notable for its vivid descriptions and profound reflections. The story, while straightforward in its recounting of a sea voyage, is layered with deeper meanings about the passage of time, the loss of youthful idealism, and the coming to terms with one’s place in the world. Conrad’s own experiences as a sailor lend authenticity to the narrative, making it a compelling and realistic portrayal of maritime adventure.
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1929: Typhoon and Other Stories, by Joseph Conrad
$25.00“Typhoon and Other Stories” by Joseph Conrad is a vivid representation of Conrad’s experiences as a seaman. “Typhoon,” the centerpiece of the collection, is a gripping tale of a steamship and its crew braving a fierce storm, serving as a powerful metaphor for the human struggle against overwhelming odds. Conrad’s narrative is renowned for its intense descriptions and psychological depth, delving into the inner lives of the characters as they face external dangers and their own internal conflicts. The stories in this collection are marked by Conrad’s characteristic themes of isolation, the unforgiving nature of the sea, and the complexities of moral and ethical dilemmas.
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1990: Pictor’s Metamorphoses and Other Fantasies, by Hermann Hesse
$55.00“Pictor’s Metamorphoses and Other Fantasies”, written by Hermann Hesse and translated by Rika Lesser, is a collection of enchanting tales that transport readers into a world of imagination and introspection. Published by The Noonday Press, Farrar, Straus and Giroux in New York in 1990, this edition features an insightful introduction by Theodore Ziolkowski.
The compilation showcases Hesse’s mastery in storytelling, exploring themes of transformation, identity, and the power of art. Slight rubbing on cover, as good as new otherwise. While a slight crease on the spine indicates that the book has been opened, it has never been fully read.
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1996: Folktakes, by Karel Jaromir Erben and Bozena Nemcova
$20.00Folktales is a beautifully illustrated collection of Czech folktales, translated into English by Vera Gissing and Lucy Dolezalova. The book features stories from two renowned Czech authors, Karel Jaromir Erben and Bozena Nemcova, and is accompanied by stunning illustrations by Josef Lada.
This 118-page book is brand new and in excellent condition. The stories in this book cover a wide range of themes and topics, from love and betrayal to magic and adventure. Each tale is unique and offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Czechia.
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1962: Maigret Takes a Room, Sunday by George Simenon
$30.00Maigret Takes a Room, Sunday by George Simenon is a gripping detective novel, and the present copy was published by The Companion Book Club in London in 1962. Set in the atmospheric streets of Paris, the story follows the renowned detective, Maigret, as he investigates a mysterious murder that takes place in a small hotel room. Simenon’s masterful storytelling keeps readers on the edge of their seats as they unravel the complex web of clues and suspects alongside the intuitive detective.
The present copy is tightly bound, in very good condition. Dustjacket is not price clipped.
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Typhoon and Other Stories, by Joseph Conrad
$20.00Vintage school edition of “Typhoon and Other Stories”, by Joseph Conrad. Red cloth hardcover volume, published by The Copp Clarke Company in Toronto. Gilt lettering on the cover and spine. Coverboards and spine show minor wear. Inside front and back covers are adorned with old reader notes, made in (now) faded ink, adding to the book’s historical appeal. Occasional pencil markings can be found throughout the book – the volume has been thoroughly read and studied. Although some pages have separated from the spine, they are still present. Back end paper is missing.
Joseph Conrad’s “Typhoon and Other Stories” is a collection of captivating tales that explore the themes of human nature and the power of nature itself. The book takes readers on a journey through the treacherous seas, delving into the lives of sailors and the challenges they face. With Conrad’s masterful storytelling and vivid descriptions, readers are transported to a world of adventure and danger.
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1966: The Red Badge of Courage and Other Stories, by Stephen Crane
$20.00The Red Badge of Courage and Other Stories, by Stephen Crane, is a collection of short stories that showcases the author’s profound understanding of human nature and the complexities of war. The book includes Crane’s most renowned work, The Red Badge of Courage, which follows the journey of a young soldier during the American Civil War. Through vivid and realistic descriptions, Crane delves into the psychological turmoil and moral dilemmas faced by soldiers on the battlefield. The other stories in the collection explore themes of courage, fear, and the harsh realities of war.
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1954: Youth and Gaspar Ruiz, by Joseph Conrad
$30.00Youth and Gaspar Ruiz is a collection of two novellas written by Joseph Conrad. The book features two distinct stories that explore the themes of youth, adventure, and the complexities of human nature. In Youth, Conrad takes readers on a gripping journey as he narrates the experiences of Marlow, a young seaman, who embarks on a treacherous voyage to the East. The story delves into the challenges and trials faced by Marlow, offering a profound reflection on the passage from youth to maturity. In Gaspar Ruiz, Conrad presents a tale of revolution and its aftermath, set in South America. The novella delves into the moral dilemmas faced by the protagonist, Gaspar Ruiz, as he navigates the complexities of loyalty, betrayal, and identity. With its vivid storytelling and exploration of human psyche, Youth and Gaspar Ruiz stand as a significant addition to Conrad’s body of work.
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1965: The Tide in The Attic, by Aleid Van Rhijn
$30.00The Tide in The Atti is a historical novel written by Aleid Van Rhijn. The book explores the lives of a Dutch family living in a small coastal town. The story revolves around a family trying to survive the real life flood and storm in Holland in 1953, in the attic and on the roof of their farmhouse as the water flooded first the ground floor and then upstairs, forcing them onto the roof in the storm. The author delves into themes of resilience, family bonds, and the impact of external forces on individual lives.
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1948: Kidnapped, by Robert Louis Stevenson
$35.00Kidnapped, by Robert Louis Stevenson, is a classic adventure novel set in 18th century Scotland. The story follows the young protagonist, David Balfour, as he is kidnapped and sold into slavery, and his subsequent journey to reclaim his inheritance and seek justice. The vintage hardcover edition, published by Grosset and Dunlap in 1948, features beautiful illustrations by Lynd Ward and is in excellent condition with minimal wear.
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1995 First Edition – The Adventures of Maqroll: Four Novellas, by Alvaro Mutis
$50.00The Adventures of Maqroll: Four Novellas is a collection of interconnected stories written by Alvaro Mutis. Published by HarperCollins in 1995, this first edition, first printing book spans 369 pages and is in brand new, fine condition. With a full number line and an intact dust jacket, this book is a valuable addition to any literary collection.
The novellas follow the adventures of the enigmatic Maqroll, a wandering sailor who embarks on various journeys across different landscapes, encountering diverse characters and exploring themes of love, friendship, and the search for meaning. Mutis’ exquisite storytelling and vivid imagery make this contemporary novel a must-read for fans of adventure and introspection.
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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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The Pilgrim’s Progress: From this World to That Which is to Come Delivered Under the Similitude of a Dream, by John Bunyan Vintage
$125.00The Pilgrim’s Progress is a classic work of Christian literature by John Bunyan. The book is an allegory that tells the story of a man named Christian who sets out on a journey from the City of Destruction to the Celestial City. Along the way, he faces various obstacles and temptations, but with the help of other pilgrims and the guidance of the Bible, he perseveres and ultimately reaches his destination. The book is filled with Christian symbolism and teachings, and has been widely read and beloved for centuries.
This particular edition of The Pilgrim’s Progress is an early 20th century printing with illustrations by Harold Copping. The book is in excellent condition, with no markings and a tight binding. The red hardcover cloth volume has some fading and minor wear, but is still a beautiful and valuable addition to any collection. The book also includes a personal inscription from M.B. Logan to Alan G. Gordon, dated July 1935.
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1920: La Legende de Guillaume D’Orange, by P. Tuffrau, published by L’Edition D’Art
$350.00La Legende de Guillaume D’Orange is a classic work by P. Tuffrau, published by L’Edition D’Art in Paris in 1920. This 27th edition is a beautiful hardcover volume with marbled front and back panels, and a leather spine with gilt ornamentation and lettering. Although there is some wear on the cover due to its age, the book is tightly bound, clean, and in remarkably good shape. The deckled fore-edges and marbled inner cover pages add to the book’s charm.
This book is a legendary tale of Guillaume D’Orange, a knight who fought against the Saracens in the 8th century. The book is signed on the first empty page, with the signature dating back to 1928. This antique copy of the classic work is a true collector’s item and would make a wonderful gift for anyone interested in French literature and history.
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1913: Tales of Hoffman Retold From Offenbach’s Opera by Cyril Falls & Illustrated by A. Brantingham Simpson
$75.00Tales of Hoffman Retold From Offenbach’s Opera is a classic book that retells the famous opera by Jacques Offenbach. Written by Cyril Falls and illustrated by A. Brantingham Simpson, R.O.I, the book was published by Chatto & Windus in London in 1913. The book is a hardcover cloth volume with ornamentation and gilt lettering on the cover and spine. It has 164 pages with deckled fore-edges and top edges gilt.
Although the book has some minor wear and fading to the spine, it is a high-quality publication with thick paper and excellent print. The volume is tightly bound and very clear, with no writing anywhere in the book.
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1967: Poems of Byron, Keats, and Shelley, selected and edited by Elliott Coleman, International Collectors Library
$180.00The 1967 edition of “Poems of Byron, Keats, and Shelley” is a collection of selected works from three of the most renowned poets of the Romantic era. Edited by Elliott Coleman, the volume includes complete shorter works and skillfully excerpted long poems, such as “Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage,” “Prometheus Unbound,” and “To a Skylark.” The book is part of “The World’s Great Poetry” series of the International Collectors Library and is bound in a soft tan Marie Antoinette replica binding with 24K gold decoration, top edges coated with real gold, and a matching ribbon marker.
The original binding of the volume, on which this replica was based, encased a copy of the Iliad bound by Derome the Younger for Marie Antoinette, the Queen of France. The design of Derome’s binding was adapted by American artist Rafael Palacios for this Collectors Library volume, retaining much of the decoration intact. The book is a collectible item, unopened and unread, and includes the original inlay from ICL with the presentation of the work and the Marie Antoinette binding.
$210.00