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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 -
Set of 2: Show Boat, and Cimarron, by Edna Ferber International Collectors Library
Show Boat, by Edna Ferber, is a classic novel that tells the story of the lives of performers on a Mississippi River show boat. The novel explores themes of love, race, and the changing times of the early 20th century. The story follows the lives of the performers, including Magnolia, the daughter of the boat’s owner, and her romance with a gambler named Gaylord Ravenal. The novel also delves into the lives of the African American performers on the boat, and the challenges they face in a society that is still grappling with issues of race and equality. Show Boat is a timeless tale that has been adapted into a successful Broadway musical and several films.
Cimarron, also by Edna Ferber, is a sweeping historical novel that tells the story of the settling of Oklahoma in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The novel follows the life of Yancey Cravat, a newspaper editor and lawyer who moves to Oklahoma with his wife, Sabra, to start a new life. The novel explores themes of ambition, love, and the clash of cultures as the settlers of Oklahoma try to build a new society. Cimarron is a powerful novel that offers a vivid portrait of a time and place in American history, and is considered one of Ferber’s greatest works.
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1977: Tom Penny, by Tony German
Tom Penny is a thrilling children’s adventure fiction book written by Tony German and illustrated by Diana McElroy. The story follows the adventures of Tom Penny, a young boy who embarks on a journey to find his missing father. Along the way, he encounters a series of challenges and obstacles that test his courage and determination. From facing dangerous animals to navigating treacherous terrain, Tom must use all his wits and skills to survive and succeed in his quest.
Set in Canada, the book offers a captivating glimpse into the country’s natural beauty and diverse wildlife. With vivid descriptions and engaging characters, Tom Penny is a timeless classic that will appeal to readers of all ages.
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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 -
1883: The Virginians, by William Makepeace Thackeray, volume V of 12 volumes of The Works
The Virginians is a classic work of literature by William Makepeace Thackeray, published as the fifth volume in a collection of 12 volumes known as The Works. The novel follows the lives of two brothers, George and Henry Warrington, who are born and raised in Virginia during the 18th century. The story explores their experiences during the American Revolution, as well as their relationships with family members, friends, and romantic interests. Thackeray’s writing style is characterized by his use of satire and wit, as well as his commentary on social class and morality.
$135.00 -
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 -
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.
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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.
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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 -
Freddy and the Dragon, by Walter R. Brooks, illustrated by Kurt Wiese, the Overlook Press, 2000
Freddy and the Dragon is a classic children’s book written by Walter R. Brooks and illustrated by Kurt Wiese. The story follows the adventures of Freddy, a pig who lives on a farm with his animal friends. When a dragon is spotted in the nearby woods, everyone is afraid except for Freddy, who decides to investigate. Along the way, he meets a group of traveling circus animals and together they come up with a plan to capture the dragon. The book is filled with humor, adventure, and heartwarming moments that will delight young readers.
This edition of Freddy and the Dragon was published in 2000 by The Overlook Press and is a reprint of the original 1958 classic. The book is in excellent condition, having never been read, and is a great collectible item for fans of children’s literature. The dust jacket is price clipped, but the book itself is in immaculate shape.
$160.00 -
1984 – Uninvited Guests: Thirteen Unwelcome Guests, collection of stories edited by Peter S. Smith
Uninvited Guests: Thirteen Unwelcome Visitors is a collection of short stories edited by Peter S. Smith and published by William Kimber in 1984. The book features works by renowned authors such as H.P. Lovecraft, Elizabeth Bowen, and Guy de Maupassant, among others. The stories revolve around the theme of unwelcome visitors, with each author bringing their unique style and perspective to the collection.
This book is a must-read for fans of horror and suspense, as it offers a diverse range of stories that are sure to keep readers on the edge of their seats. The volume and dust jacket are in near-perfect condition, making it a collectible item for book enthusiasts.
$160.00 -
SIGNED: Andrew Connington, by Grace Irwin, 1995
This volume of Andrew Connington is a reprint of Grace Irwin’s 1953 novel, which tells the story of a young man named Andrew Connington who is struggling to find his place in the world. The novel is set in Toronto and explores themes of love, family, and self-discovery. The book is signed by the author and is in excellent condition, with only minor wear on the cover.
Andrew Connington is a compelling work of fiction that is sure to resonate with readers who are interested in coming-of-age stories and exploring the complexities of human relationships. Irwin’s writing is engaging and insightful, and her characters are well-developed and relatable.
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1980 Hope Against Hope: A Memoir, by Nadezhda Mandelstam, Atheneum, New York
Hope Against Hope: A Memoir is a powerful and moving account of life in Stalinist Russia. Written by Nadezhda Mandelstam, the wife of the famous poet Osip Mandelstam, the book chronicles the couple’s struggle to survive under the brutal regime of Joseph Stalin. Mandelstam’s memoir is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of oppression and persecution. It is a deeply personal and emotional account of one woman’s fight for survival, and a vivid portrayal of life in one of the darkest periods of Russian history.
The book is a must-read for anyone interested in Russian history, as well as for those who are interested in the human experience of living under a totalitarian regime. Mandelstam’s writing is powerful and evocative, and her memoir is a testament to the enduring power of hope in the face of adversity. This book is a classic of Russian literature, and a powerful reminder of the importance of freedom and human dignity.
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1950: Women in Love, by D. H. Lawrence
Women in Love by D.H. Lawrence is a classic novel that was re-issued in 1950. The story follows the lives of two sisters, Ursula and Gudrun, as they navigate love, relationships, and societal expectations in early 20th century England. The novel explores themes of sexuality, gender roles, and the struggle for personal freedom and fulfillment. Lawrence’s writing style is known for its poetic and philosophical nature, and Women in Love is no exception. The book is a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate readers with its vivid characters and thought-provoking themes.
This particular edition of Women in Love is a collectible item, with an immaculate green hardcover cloth volume and gilt ornamentation on the cover. The book is in very fine condition, as good as new, and features deckled edges.
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1956: The Firstborn, a play by Christopher Fry, Second Edition
The Firstborn is a play in three acts written by Christopher Fry and published by Oxford University Press. The second edition, which is a small blue cloth hardcover volume with gilt lettering on the spine, was published in the same year. The play tells the story of the biblical character Moses and his struggles with his family, his people, and his faith. The play explores themes of leadership, sacrifice, and redemption, and is known for its poetic language and philosophical depth.
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1925: The Great Pandolfo, by William J. Locke
The Great Pandolfo is a novel by William J. Locke that tells the story of Pandolfo, a talented musician who is forced to leave his home country of Italy and seek refuge in England due to a scandal. In England, Pandolfo struggles to make a living as a musician and ends up working as a waiter in a restaurant. However, his talent is eventually discovered by a wealthy woman named Lady Millingham, who becomes his patron and helps him achieve success as a musician. The novel explores themes of love, friendship, and the pursuit of artistic excellence.
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1968: Send Him Victorious, by Douglas Hurd and Andrew Osmond
Send Him Victorious is a political thriller novel written by Douglas Hurd and Andrew Osmond. The book is set in 1968, a year of political turmoil and social unrest in Britain. The story revolves around the Prime Minister of Britain, Harry Carrington, who is facing a crisis as the country is on the brink of a revolution. With the help of his loyal aides, Carrington must navigate through the political landscape and make tough decisions to save his government from collapsing.
The authors, both former politicians, use their insider knowledge to create a gripping and realistic portrayal of the political world. The book is filled with suspense, intrigue, and unexpected twists that keep the reader engaged until the very end.
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1931: The History of Chevalier Des Grieux and of Manon Lescaut, by Abbe Prevost D’Exiles
The History of Chevalier Des Grieux and of Manon Lescaut is a classic French novel by Abbe Prevost D’Exiles, originally published in 1731. The novel tells the tragic love story of Des Grieux, a young nobleman, and Manon Lescaut, a beautiful and charming woman who leads him into a life of debauchery and crime. The novel is renowned for its vivid portrayal of 18th-century French society, its exploration of the themes of love, passion, and morality, and its powerful and emotional ending. This edition of the novel, translated by Helen Waddel and with an introduction by George Saintsbury, was published in London in 1931 and is a beautiful antique volume with a cloth spine, gilt lettering, and deckled fore-edges.
Despite some wear and rubbing around the corners and edges of the faded board covers, the book is in near-immaculate condition, with no writing or markings on the pages. This edition is a wonderful example of a classic French novel and a beautiful addition to any book collection.
$75.00 -
2003, 1st Canadian Edition: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, by J. K. Rowling
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix is the fifth book in the popular Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling. The book follows Harry Potter, now fifteen years old, as he returns to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry for his fifth year. However, this year is different as the Ministry of Magic refuses to believe that Lord Voldemort has returned and is actively working against Harry and Dumbledore. Meanwhile, Harry struggles with the emotional aftermath of witnessing Cedric Diggory’s murder and the isolation he feels from his friends.
The book explores themes of power, corruption, and the importance of standing up for what is right. It also introduces new characters such as Dolores Umbridge, a Ministry-appointed teacher who becomes a tyrant at Hogwarts, and members of the Order of the Phoenix, a secret society dedicated to fighting Voldemort. With its fast-paced action and emotional depth, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix is a beloved addition to the series.
$110.00 -
1924: Shirley, a novel by Charlotte, Emily and Anne Bronte, part XIV of the World’s Classics
Shirley is a novel written by the Bronte sisters, Charlotte, Emily, and Anne, and was published in 1924. The story is set in Yorkshire during the Napoleonic Wars and follows the lives of two young women, Caroline and Shirley. Caroline is a quiet and reserved girl who lives with her uncle, while Shirley is a wealthy heiress who owns a large estate. The two women become friends and their lives become intertwined as they navigate love, politics, and social class in a changing world.
The novel is a classic example of Victorian literature and explores themes of gender roles, class divisions, and the struggles of women in a male-dominated society. The Bronte sisters were known for their strong female characters and Shirley is no exception. The novel is a captivating read that transports the reader to a bygone era and provides a glimpse into the lives of women during a time of great social and political change.
$65.00