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1984 – The Nightmare of Reason: A Life of Franz Kafka, by Ernst Pawel
The Nightmare of Reason: A Life of Franz Kafka by Ernst Pawel is a comprehensive biography that delves into the enigmatic life of one of the most influential writers of the 20th century, Franz Kafka. Published by Farrar, Straus and Giroux in New York in 1984, this second printing (first printing was in 1948) offers readers a deep insight into Kafka’s personal struggles, his unique writing style, and the profound impact his works had on literature.
This hardcover volume features a red cloth spine and is in impeccable condition, clean and tightly bound, making it a valuable addition to any literary collection. Please note that the dust jacket is absent.
With a focus on the plot and key themes, this biography unveils the complexities of Kafka’s life, his exploration of existentialism, and the haunting themes of alienation and bureaucracy that permeate his works.
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1971: The Comedy of Neil Simon
The Comedy of Neil Simon is a comprehensive collection of Neil Simon’s most renowned comedic plays. Published by Random House in 1971, this 657-page hardcover volume is bound in red cloth, with gilt lettering on the cover and spine, adding a touch of elegance to any bookshelf. Despite minor wear and rubbing along the edges and bottom of the spine, the book remains in very clean and tightly bound condition.
With its witty dialogue and relatable characters, The Comedy of Neil Simon offers readers an entertaining journey through the playwright’s timeless works, exploring themes of love, relationships, and the human condition.
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1995 First Edition – The Adventures of Maqroll: Four Novellas, by Alvaro Mutis
The 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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1980: World of Wonders, by Robertson Davies
World of Wonders is a thought-provoking novel written by Robertson Davies and published by Penguin Books in Canada in 1980. This vintage paperback edition, spanning 315 pages, is a pristine copy that has never been fully opened, making it a true gem for collectors and avid readers. Set in a small Canadian town, the story follows the life of Magnus Eisengrim, a renowned illusionist, as he unveils the secrets of his extraordinary career. Exploring themes of identity, illusion, and the power of storytelling, this contemporary novel offers readers a captivating journey into the world of magic and self-discovery.
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1922: Journeys Through Bookland: A New and Original Plan for Reading Applied to The World’s Best Literature for Children, by Charles H. Sylvester, volume 5
Journeys Through Bookland: A New and Original Plan for Reading Applied to The World’s Best Literature for Children is a classic work by Charles H. Sylvester, offering a unique approach to introducing children to the world of literature. This black hardcover edition, adorned with gilt ornamentation and lettering on the cover and spine, is a valuable addition to any collection. Despite its age, the book remains in very good condition, with only slight rubbing and wear on the cover and bottom spine. While there is minor fading to the pages, the overall quality is impressive. It is important to note a slight damp stain on some pages at the bottom of the book, but this does not significantly detract from the reading experience.
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1922: Journeys Through Bookland: A New and Original Plan for Reading Applied to The World’s Best Literature for Children, by Charles H. Sylvester, volume 3
1922: Journeys Through Bookland: A New and Original Plan for Reading Applied to The World’s Best Literature for Children, volume 3 by Charles H. Sylvester is a valuable addition to any children’s literature collection. This black hardcover volume features beautiful gilt ornamentation and lettering on the cover and spine, adding an elegant touch. Although there is slight rubbing and wear on the cover and bottom spine due to its age, the book remains in very good condition overall. Readers may notice minor fading to the pages, but this does not detract from the readability of the text. Additionally, there is a slight forward tilt to the book. Notably, there is a slight damp stain on some pages at the bottom, which can be confirmed by referring to the provided photos. However, this does not affect the legibility of the text. With no writing or other marks, this book is a treasure for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
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1917: Kitchener and Other Poems, by Robert J.C. Stead
Kitchener and Other Poems, written by Robert J.C. Stead and published by The Musson Book Company in Toronto in 1917, is a second edition collection of poetry. This burgundy leatherette softcover volume features gilt lettering on the cover and spine, adding an elegant touch to the book. Although there is some rubbing and wear to the cover, as well as a small tear on the bottom of the spine, the book remains in very good condition considering its age. Inside the front cover, there is an ink signature from Christmas 1918.
Despite some fading and foxing due to age, this book remains a valuable addition to any poetry lover’s collection. -
Voices of the Night : Ballads and Other Poems, by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Arlington Edition
Voices of the Night: Ballads and Other Poems by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is a classic collection of poetry. This Arlington Edition, published by Hurst & Company in New York, features a hardcover volume with beautiful ornamentation and lettering on the cover and spine. While the cover shows some expected wear, including slight bending of the corners and staining and fading on the back cover, the book remains in good condition overall. The pages have yellowed over time, adding to its vintage charm. It is worth noting that the first blank page before the titular page is missing. Inside the front cover, there is an old ink inscription dated 1898.
With its rich history and timeless poetry, Voices of the Night is a must-have for poetry enthusiasts. The collection explores various themes such as love, nature, and the human condition, offering readers a profound and thought-provoking experience.
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1924 – Saint Joan: A Chronicle Play in Six Scenes and an Epilogue, by Bernard Shaw
Saint Joan: A Chronicle Play in Six Scenes and an Epilogue is a historical play written by Bernard Shaw. Published by Doodd, Mead & Company in New York in 1924, this seventeenth printing edition is a valuable addition to any theater enthusiast’s collection. The hardcover volume is bound in green cloth and shows some minor wear and rubbing on the cover and spine. However, the book is well bound with no writing or markings. Due to its age, there is some fading and yellowing to the pages, but this does not detract from the overall readability. With its deckled fore-edges, this book is in very good condition for its age.
Shaw’s play explores the life of Joan of Arc, delving into themes of faith, power, and gender roles in medieval society.
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1899: A Monk of Cruta, by E. Phillips Oppenheim
A Monk of Cruta is a historical novel written by E. Phillips Oppenheim and published by Ward, Lock & Co in London in 1899. This 317-page hardcover volume is bound in burgundy cloth, featuring elegant gilt lettering on the cover and spine. Although the book shows minor staining and wear on the cover and spine, these blemishes are consistent with its age and add to its vintage charm. The book is tightly bound, and while there is some fading to the pages due to the passage of time, it remains in very good condition overall.
Set in a captivating historical backdrop, the plot follows the journey of a monk who finds himself entangled in a web of political intrigue and personal dilemmas.
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1905: A Maker of History, by E. Phillips Oppenheim
A Maker of History is a historical novel written by E. Phillips Oppenheim and published by Ward, Locke & Co in London in 1905. This second edition, consisting of 315 pages, is a valuable addition to any history enthusiast’s collection. The book features a blue hardcover with color and gilt ornamentation and lettering on the cover and spine, showcasing its exquisite design.
Although there is minor wear and rubbing on the cover and spine, particularly around the edges, the book remains in very good condition for its age. Inside, the front advertisement page is separated from the spine but is still present. The pages have yellowed and show signs of foxing, which is expected given its age.
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1989: Selected Poems, by Halldis Moren Vesaas
Selected Poems is a collection of poetic works by Halldis Moren Vesaas, skillfully translated by Wakefield and Thompson. Published by White Pine Press in Buffalo in 1989, this 75-page volume showcases the profound and evocative verses of Vesaas. The black pictorial softcover, with its glossy finish, adds an elegant touch to this brand new book. Impeccably preserved, it bears no scratches or markings, making it a pristine addition to any poetry enthusiast’s collection.
Delving into themes of nature, introspection, and the human experience, this collection offers readers a glimpse into Vesaas’ poetic brilliance.
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1992 First Edition – Possible Worlds & A Short History of Night, by John Mighton
Possible Worlds & A Short History of Night is a thought-provoking collection of two plays written by John Mighton. First edition, published by Playwrights Canada Press in 1992.
The plays offer readers a unique exploration of human relationships, identity, and the nature of reality. With its engaging plotlines and insightful themes, this contemporary play collection is a valuable addition to any theater enthusiast’s library.
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1972: Old Tales Retold, by Lu Hsun
Old Tales Retold by Lu Hsun, second edition published by Foreign Language Press in Peking in 1972. This compact softcover volume consists of 137 pages and offers a collection of retold tales.
The book explores various themes and provides a fresh perspective on traditional stories.
With minor rubbing, wear, and staining on the cover, the book is in very good condition overall. It is clean, without any writing or markings, and tightly bound. A red stamp belonging to the National Publications Centre can be found on the bottom back cover.
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Ordinance Gazetteer of Scotland: A Survey of Scottish Topography, Statistical, Bibliographical, and Historical, ed. by Francis H. Groome, volume II
The Ordinance Gazetteer of Scotland: A Survey of Scottish Topography, Statistical, Bibliographical, and Historical, edited by Francis H. Groome, is a comprehensive reference book that provides a detailed survey of Scotland’s topography, statistics, bibliography, and history.
Published by William Mackenzie in London in 1893, this blue hardcover volume with gilt lettering and ornamentation on the cover and spine is a valuable addition to any collection. Despite some wear to the cover, particularly around the corners and spine, which is consistent with its age, the book is in very good condition. There is minor fading and discoloration due to the passage of time, but no writing or other markings are present.
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Ordinance Gazetteer of Scotland: A Survey of Scottish Topography, Statistical, Bibliographical, and Historical, ed. by Francis H. Groome, volume III
The Ordinance Gazetteer of Scotland: A Survey of Scottish Topography, Statistical, Bibliographical, and Historical, edited by Francis H. Groome, is a comprehensive reference book that provides a detailed survey of Scotland’s topography, statistics, bibliography, and history. This particular listing is for volume III of the six-volume set, published by William Mackenzie in London in 1893.
The book features a blue hardcover with elegant gilt lettering and ornamentation on the cover and spine, adding a touch of sophistication to any bookshelf. While there is some wear to the cover, especially around the corners and spine, it is to be expected considering the age of the book. Additionally, there is minor fading and discoloration due to the passage of time. However, the absence of any writing or markings and the tight binding indicate that the volume is in very good condition.
With its wealth of information, this volume serves as an invaluable resource for anyone interested in exploring Scotland’s geography, statistics, bibliography, and history. It delves into the diverse landscapes, provides statistical data, offers bibliographic references, and presents a historical overview.
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2010 First Edition: Beatrice & Virgil, by Yann Martel
Beatrice & Virgil is a contemporary novel written by Yann Martel and published by Alfred Knopf in Canada in 2010. This first edition, first printing with a full number line is a collector’s copy. The book features a pictorial grey hardcover volume and an immaculate dust jacket. With 197 pages, this brand new and unread book is in pristine condition.
The novel delves into the lives of the characters Beatrice and Virgil, exploring their complex relationship and the themes of art, morality, and the Holocaust. Martel weaves a thought-provoking narrative that challenges readers to contemplate the power of storytelling and the nature of humanity. With its unique blend of fiction and allegory, Beatrice & Virgil offers a profound and introspective reading experience.
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1989: Alaska Bear Tales, by Larry Kaniut
Alaska Bear Tales by Larry Kaniut is a gripping collection of true stories that delve into the fascinating world of bears in Alaska. Published by Alaska Northwest Books in the USA in 1989, this ninth printing edition spans 318 pages. With a softcover volume that exhibits minor wear to the cover, the book is otherwise in excellent condition – it is very clean and tightly bound.
In Alaska Bear Tales, Kaniut takes readers on a thrilling journey through the wild landscapes of Alaska, where encounters with bears are a common occurrence. From heart-pounding tales of survival to heartwarming stories of human-bear interactions, this book offers a comprehensive exploration of the relationship between humans and bears in the Last Frontier. With vivid descriptions and expert storytelling, Kaniut sheds light on the behaviors, habits, and challenges faced by these majestic creatures. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply intrigued by Alaska’s wilderness, Alaska Bear Tales is a must-read that will leave you both informed and entertained.
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2018 First Edition: Theory, by Dionne Brand
Theory, written by Dionne Brand and published by Alfred Knopf in Canada in 2018, is a thought-provoking and intellectually stimulating work.
The present copy is a first edition, first printing with a full number line.
Theory explores various themes such as identity, race, and power dynamics.
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1978: Another Fine Myth, by Robert Asprin
Another Fine Myth, by Robert Asprin, is a first edition contemporary fantasy novel published by Donning in Norfolk in 1978. The story follows the adventures of Skeeve, a young magician’s apprentice, who is unexpectedly thrown into a world of magic and mayhem when his master is assassinated. As Skeeve navigates through this new realm, he teams up with a colorful cast of characters, including a demon named Aahz, to unravel a mysterious plot and save the day. With its witty humor and imaginative world-building, Another Fine Myth is a must-read for fans of the fantasy genre.
This pictorial softcover volume is in very good condition, with only minor wear to the cover corners. The only notable flaw is the absence of the front blank page. Otherwise, this book is nearly as good as new.