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1952: The Admirable Crichton, by J. M. Barrie
$25.00“The Admirable Crichton,” a play written by J. M. Barrie, was first performed in 1902. J. M. Barrie, best known for creating “Peter Pan,” crafted this work as a social commentary wrapped in a comedic format. The play stands out for its satirical take on class distinctions and social structures in Edwardian society.
The plot revolves around the character of Crichton, a competent and resourceful butler serving the aristocratic Loam family. The central event of the play is a shipwreck that leaves Crichton and the Loams stranded on a deserted island. In this new setting, away from the rigid class structures of British society, Crichton’s practical skills and leadership qualities come to the fore. He becomes the natural leader of the group, reversing the traditional servant-master relationship. This role reversal is central to the play’s exploration of class dynamics and the question of whether social hierarchies are a product of nature or nurture.
“The Admirable Crichton” is characterized by Barrie’s signature wit and clever dialogue. The play humorously yet thoughtfully examines the artificiality of social status and the true nature of nobility and competence. It poses philosophical questions about equality and the inherent worth of individuals, irrespective of their social standing.
The play was well-received and has been adapted into various forms, including films and television, testament to its enduring appeal. “The Admirable Crichton” remains a significant work in the canon of British theatre for its engaging narrative, its critique of social structures, and its insightful observations on human nature and societal norms.
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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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1942: The Bobbsey Twins In the Land of Cotton, by Laura Lee Hope
$20.00“The Bobbsey Twins in the Land of Cotton,” authored by Laura Lee Hope is one of the many installments in the beloved Bobbsey Twins series, a popular children’s book series in the early to mid-20th century. The series features the adventures of two sets of twins in the Bobbsey family – Bert and Nan, who are twelve years old, and Flossie and Freddie, who are six. Each book takes the twins on various adventures, often involving mysteries and exciting discoveries, and this particular title is no exception.
Set in the Southern United States, “The Bobbsey Twins in the Land of Cotton” explores the culture and lifestyle of the region through the eyes of the Bobbsey family. The story, like others in the series, is characterized by its wholesome and light-hearted nature, aimed at imparting moral lessons and entertaining young readers. The book’s portrayal of the South, however, is reflective of the time it was written, and modern readers may find some depictions outdated or stereotypical. The Bobbsey Twins series has been noted for its cultural and historical value, offering insights into the societal norms and attitudes of its time. This particular book, with its engaging narrative and exploration of new environments, continues to be a charming read for those interested in classic children’s literature.
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1967: The Shape of Things to Come, by H. G. Wells
$20.00“The Shape of Things to Come,” authored by H.G. Wells and originally published in 1933, is a visionary science fiction novel that explores the future of humanity through speculative foresight. The narrative is framed as a historical account written from the future, specifically the year 2106, by a character named Dr. Philip Raven, who bases his account on a series of dream visions. Wells’s ambitious narrative spans from the 1930s to the 22nd century, detailing a series of catastrophic events, including global wars, plagues, and the eventual collapse of existing political and social structures. Notably, the novel predicts the occurrence of a second world war and various technological advancements, such as air warfare and a global communication network akin to the internet.
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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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The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam & Six Plays of Calderon, translated by Edward Fitzgerald
$25.00“The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam & Six Plays of Calderon,” translated by Edward Fitzgerald, represents a unique blend of Eastern and Western literary traditions. Fitzgerald, better known for his translation of “The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam,” brings a distinctive touch to both works, showcasing his skill in poetic interpretation and translation. -
1973: Heath Robinson: Artist and Comic Genius, by John Lewis
$25.00“Heath Robinson: Artist and Comic Genius” by John Lewis, published in 1973 by Harper & Row in New York, is an exploration of the life and work of W. Heath Robinson, a renowned British cartoonist and illustrator. Known for his intricate and whimsical machinery illustrations, Heath Robinson earned a reputation as a comic genius with a distinctive style that still resonates with audiences today. In this book, John Lewis delves into Robinson’s artistic journey, providing a comprehensive look at his wide-ranging work that spanned book illustrations, magazine cartoons, and wartime sketches. The book is not only a celebration of Robinson’s artistic achievements but also an intimate look at the man behind the famed contraptions and his impact on the world of art and humor.
Lewis’s book is richly illustrated with Robinson’s work, offering readers a visual feast of his most iconic creations. It details how Robinson’s art evolved over time, reflecting the changing social and political landscapes of his era. The author expertly weaves biography with artistic analysis, revealing how Robinson’s unique blend of whimsy and satire was often a commentary on the absurdities of modern life.
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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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1931: The Making of Man: An Outline of Anthropology, edited by V.F. Calverton
$25.00“The Making of Man: An Outline of Anthropology,” edited by V.F. Calverton, is a comprehensive exploration into the study of anthropology during the early 20th century. Published in 1931, a period marked by significant scientific and cultural shifts, the book delves into various aspects of human evolution, cultural development, and the biological factors that have shaped humanity. Calverton, known for his intellectual rigor and interdisciplinary approach, compiles contributions from a range of experts in the field, making this work a substantial compilation of anthropological knowledge of the time. The book reflects the era’s perspectives and theories, offering insights into how early anthropologists viewed human development and the factors influencing it.
The book is notable for its attempt to synthesize a wide array of anthropological knowledge into a cohesive framework. Covering topics from the physical evolution of humans to the development of language, art, and social structures, it provides a panoramic view of human history from an anthropological perspective. The work stands as a testament to the intellectual curiosity and scholarly efforts of its era, offering a window into the methodologies and theoretical underpinnings of early 20th-century anthropology. For modern readers, “The Making of Man” serves not only as a historical piece but also as a tool for understanding the evolution of anthropological thought and its impact on our contemporary understanding of human history and culture.
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1929: Caught Short! A Saga of Wailing Wall Street, by Eddie Cantor
$60.00“Caught Short! A Saga of Wailing Wall Street” by Eddie Cantor is a humorous and insightful reflection on the Wall Street stock market crash of 1929, which led to the Great Depression. Eddie Cantor, a renowned comedian and entertainer of the era, uses his sharp wit and personal experiences to provide a candid, satirical commentary on the financial chaos and its impact on both Wall Street and the average American.
Illustrated by Sid L. Hydeman, this book is not just a mere recounting of historical events, but a lively narrative filled with humor and a unique perspective on one of the most tumultuous periods in American financial history.
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A Maker of History, by E. Phillips Oppenheim
$35.00“A Maker of History”, written by E. Phillips Oppenheim and published by Ward, Lock & Co in London. The present copy is a small hardcover volume that measures 17x12cm. Red cloth binding and impressed ornamentation on the cover. The gilt lettering on the spine. Although the book shows moderate wear, including some spatter staining, it is in good overall condition. The 251-page volume contains no writing or marking. There is a partial separation from the spine at the title page.
“A Maker of History” is a historical novel that takes readers on a captivating journey through time. Set in an era of political intrigue and power struggles, the book explores themes of ambition, loyalty, and the consequences of one’s actions. Oppenheim weaves a compelling plot filled with twists and turns, keeping readers engaged until the very end.
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Horace Blake, by Mrs Wilfried Ward
$45.00“Horace Blake”, by Mrs Wilfried Ward, published by Hutchinson & Co in London. This undated volume spans 320 pages and is bound in red cloth with impressed ornamentation on the front cover and an advertisement for Fry’s breakfast cocoa on the back cover. The spine features gilt ornamentation and lettering, although there is some wear to the cover boards and fading to the spine. Inside the back cover is a pencil signature with a hotel address at the Ritz. The pages have yellowed due to the age of the book, and there are two small drip stains on the back cover. The book is in fair condition.
The novel is a work of fiction that follows the story of Horace Blake, delving into themes of love, loss, and the human experience. The author’s writing style and attention to detail make this book a valuable addition to any collection.
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1912: The Little Minister, by J. M. Barrie
$45.00“The Little Minister”, by J. M. Barrie, a small hardcover volume published by Cassell in London in early 1900s. This 375-page book is bound in burgundy cloth with gilt ornamentation and lettering on the cover and spine. The cover shows minor wear, with rubbing mostly around the edges, corners, and spine folds. The front blank end paper features an owner inscription dated to 10/12, but there is no other writing or markings throughout the book. Despite a small damp stain with runny color on the corner of the title page (not obtrusive), the book remains well bound. The top page edges are gilt. The book is in good to very good condition.
“The Little Minister” tells the story of Gavin Dishart, a young and ambitious minister in the fictional Scottish village of Thrums. Set in the late 19th century, the novel explores themes of love, faith, and the clash between tradition and progress. Barrie’s vivid descriptions and engaging characters bring the village and its inhabitants to life, making this book a must-read for fans of classic literature.
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1997 First Edition: Bogart, by A. M. Sperber and Eric Lax
$65.00“Bogart”, by A. M. Sperber and Eric Lax, is a comprehensive biography of the legendary actor Humphrey Bogart. The present copy is first edition, first printing,
The biography offers a detailed look into Bogart’s life, career, and impact on Hollywood, it provides a thorough examination of the actor’s personal and professional life, including Bogart’s rise to stardom, his iconic roles in classic films such as Casablanca and The Maltese Falcon, and his relationships with other Hollywood legends. It also explores the key themes of Bogart’s life, including his tough-guy persona, his tumultuous relationships, and his enduring legacy in the world of cinema.
The book is in brand new condition, with no writing or markings, and is not price clipped.
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1992: A Canadian Millionaire: The Life and Business Times of Sir Joseph Flavelle, Bart. 1858-1939, by Michael Bliss
$60.00“A Canadian Millionaire: The Life and Business Times of Sir Joseph Flavelle, Bart. 1858-1939” by Michael Bliss is a comprehensive biography that delves into the remarkable life and achievements of Sir Joseph Flavelle, a prominent Canadian millionaire. Published by the University of Toronto Press in 1992, this first paperback edition is a reprint of the original issue published in 1998 by Macmillan of Canada.
With 562 pages, the book provides a detailed account of Flavelle’s life, from his humble beginnings to his rise as a successful businessman. The book is in excellent condition, with no writing or markings, and is very well bound. Although it shows a slight fold crease along the spine, indicating the book had been opened, it remains in near-new condition. There is minimal rubbing or wear on the cover.
This biography offers valuable insights into the life of a significant figure in Canadian history, making it a must-read for anyone interested in business, entrepreneurship, and the development of Canada in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
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2021 First Edition: Cloud Cuckoo Land, by Anthony Doerr
$45.00“Cloud Cuckoo Land”, written by Anthony Doerr and published by Scribner in New York in 2021, is a thought-provoking and beautifully crafted novel. This first edition, first printing with a full number line spans across 626 pages, offering an immersive reading experience. The book is in brand new condition, with no writing or markings, and the dust jacket is not price clipped.
Cloud Cuckoo Land takes readers on a mesmerizing journey through time and space, interweaving multiple narratives that span from ancient Constantinople to present-day Idaho. This contemporary novel explores themes of hope, resilience, and the power of storytelling, as it follows the lives of five unforgettable characters whose paths converge in unexpected ways. With Doerr’s exquisite prose and meticulous attention to detail, Cloud Cuckoo Land is a literary gem that will captivate readers and leave them pondering the profound connections that bind us all.
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1996 First Edition: The Living and the Dead: Robert McNamara and Five Lives of a Lost War, by Paul Hendrickson
$45.00“The Living and the Dead: Robert McNamara and Five Lives of a Lost War”, written by Paul Hendrickson and published by Alfred Knopf in New York in 1996, is a comprehensive biography that delves into the complex life and decisions of Robert McNamara, the former Secretary of Defense during the Vietnam War.
With 427 pages, this first edition book provides a deep exploration of McNamara’s role in the war and its aftermath. The author skillfully weaves together McNamara’s personal experiences and interviews with five individuals affected by the war, offering a multi-faceted perspective on the conflict. This brand new copy is in pristine condition, never read, and not price clipped, and is a valuable addition to any history enthusiast’s collection.
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1980: The Little Immigrants: The Orphans Who Came to Canada, by Kenneth Bagnell
$55.00“The Little Immigrants: The Orphans Who Came to Canada” by Kenneth Bagnell is a historical non-fiction work, the present copy of which was published by Macmillan of Canada in Toronto in 1980. Hardcover volume bound in brown cloth with gilt lettering on the spine.
The book tells the story of the thousands of British children who were sent to Canada between 1869 and 1939 as part of a child migration scheme. Bagnell provides a detailed account of their journey, the conditions they faced, and the impact it had on their lives. The book is in very good+ condition with minor wear to the dust jacket and bears an owner’s inscription on the front endpaper. The work is a valuable resource for anyone interested in Canadian history and the experiences of child migrants.
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1987: Gershwin, by Edward Jablonski
$35.00“Gershwin” by Edward Jablonski is a comprehensive biography that delves into the life and work of the legendary American composer, George Gershwin. The book offers readers a deep exploration of Gershwin’s musical genius and his impact on the world of music, providing a detailed account of Gershwin’s upbringing, his rise to fame, and his enduring legacy.
Published by Doubleday in New York in 1987, the present volume is a stated first edition. The book is in almost new condition, with only minor wear at the bottom edge of the dust jacket and a small pencil mark on the pre-titular page. Not price clipped and appears not to have been read, this book is a valuable addition to any music lover’s collection.
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1992 First Edition SIGNED: The Last Mogul The Unauthorized Biography of Jack Kent Cooke, by Adrian Havill
$105.00“The Last Mogul” is a comprehensive biography of Jack Kent Cooke, written by Adrian Havill and published by St. Martin’s Press in New York in 1992. This first edition, first printing copy is in new condition and has never been read. The book is signed by the author and includes a personalized message to a Redskins fan.
The book delves into the life of Cooke, a successful businessman who owned several sports teams, including the Washington Redskins. It explores his rise to success, personal life, and legacy. This is a must-read for sports fans and those interested in the business world.