-
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.
-
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.
-
1983 Captured Memories: A History of Alsask and Surrounding School Districts
Captured Memories: A History of Alsask and Surrounding School Districts is a non-fiction book that delves into the history of Alsask, a town in Canada, and its surrounding school districts. The book is written by the Alsask History Book Committee and was first published in 1983. It is a large, orange cloth hardcover volume with black decoration and lettering printed on the cover and spine. The book contains 488 pages and is filled with black-and-white photographs, maps, and more.
The book provides a detailed account of the history of Alsask and its inhabitants. It covers various school districts in the area, including Bonnie Brier, Clifton Bank, Eastside, Lloyd George, Merid, Roslyn, Stoneyhurst, Westside, and Wolf Willow. This is an excellent read for anyone interested in Canadian history.
-
1950: Belles on Their Toes by Frank B. Gilbreth Jr and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey, International Collectors Library
Belles on Their Toes is a memoir written by Frank B. Gilbreth Jr and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey, the children of efficiency experts Frank and Lillian Gilbreth, who were the subjects of the previous book in the series, Cheaper by the Dozen. The book follows the Gilbreth family as they navigate the challenges of life after their father’s sudden death, including running the family business and raising their younger siblings. The memoir is filled with humorous anecdotes and heartwarming moments as the siblings work together to keep their family and business afloat.
This edition of Belles on Their Toes is a beautiful collector’s item, with a black hardcover leatherette volume adorned with gilt and impressed ornamentation and lettering on the front and spine.
-
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 -
1977 First Edition: Magical and Mystical Site Europe and the British Isles, by Elizabeth Pepper and John Wilcock
Magical and Mystical Site: Europe and the British Isles is a non-fiction book written by Elizabeth Pepper and John Wilcock. The book explores the magical and mystical sites in Europe and the British Isles, providing readers with a comprehensive guide to these locations.
The hardcover volume comes with a dust jacket that is unclipped and in protective film cover. The book is in near mint condition, with the only issue being some mild staining on the top edges. This first edition is numbered on the dust jacket flap.
-
1949 3rd Impression: Painting as a Pastime, by Winston S. Churchill
Painting as a Pastime is a collection of essays discussing Churchill’s personal experience with painting as a hobby and the benefits it can bring to one’s life.
The book is a vintage hardcover with gilt lettering on the cover and spine. It is in very good condition, with only slight fading and foxing on the edges. The book is well bound and contains 18 colored plates, making it a valuable addition to any art lover’s collection.
$105.00 -
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 -
RARE, 1948: Footlose in the Congo, by Roger Courtney
Footloose in the Congo is a rare first edition book written by Roger Courtney and published by Herbert Jenkins Limited in London in 1948. The book is a scarce account of the author’s life during a locust campaign as Chief Field Officer for an area in East Africa. The volume is not dated but has an inscription on the blank title page that reads “To Leslie, 1953.” The book is a blue cloth hardcover with impressed lettering on the spine and has moderate signs of fading and wear. There are minor signs of yellowing and aging on the pages, and there is a faded stamp on the inside of the back cover that reads “25 April 1953.” The book is in very good condition, aside from the faded cover, and might benefit from being rebound.
This book is a non-fiction account of the author’s experiences in East Africa during a locust campaign. It provides a rare glimpse into the life of a Chief Field Officer during this time period. The book is a first edition and is considered a valuable collector’s item. The author’s signature and an inscription on the blank title page add to the book’s value and historical significance. The book is in good condition, with only minor signs of wear and aging, and would make an excellent addition to any collection of books about Africa or non-fiction works about life in the mid-twentieth century.
-
1967 The Naked Ape: A Zoologists Study of the Human Animal, by Desmond Morris, McGrawHill
The Naked Ape: A Zoologist’s Study of the Human Animal by Desmond Morris, first published in 1967. The book explores human behavior and society from a zoological perspective, examining the ways in which humans are similar to and different from other animals. Morris argues that humans are essentially animals, and that many of our behaviors and social structures can be explained by looking at our evolutionary history.
The book covers a wide range of topics, including human sexuality, aggression, communication, and culture. Morris uses examples from both human and animal behavior to illustrate his points, and he challenges many commonly-held beliefs about human nature. The Naked Ape was a controversial book when it was first published, but it quickly became a best-seller and has since become a classic of popular science writing.
-
1978 People of the Lake: Mankind and its Beginnings, Richard E. Leakey, Roger Lewin
People of the Lake: Mankind and its Beginnings is a non-fiction book written by Richard E. Leakey and Roger Lewin. The book explores the origins of mankind and the evolution of human beings from their earliest beginnings. The authors draw on their extensive knowledge of anthropology and archaeology to present a comprehensive and engaging account of human evolution, from the emergence of the first hominids to the development of modern humans. The book is filled with photographs and illustrations that help to bring the story of human evolution to life.
The book is divided into several sections, each of which focuses on a different aspect of human evolution. The authors discuss the discovery of early hominid fossils, the development of stone tools, the emergence of language, and the spread of human beings across the globe. They also explore the social and cultural aspects of human evolution, including the development of art, religion, and music. Overall, People of the Lake is a fascinating and informative book that provides a detailed and engaging account of the origins of mankind.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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 -
1973 Pentimento: A Book of Portraits, by Lillian Hellman
Pentimento: A Book of Portraits is a collection of memoirs and personal essays that offer a glimpse into the author’s life and the people she encountered throughout her career. The title, Pentimento, refers to the art technique of painting over a previous layer to reveal a hidden image, which is used as a metaphor for the process of remembering and reflecting on one’s past.
The book includes portraits of several notable figures, including Hellman’s former lover, writer Dashiell Hammett, and her friend, the painter Arthur Gold. Hellman also writes about her experiences during the McCarthy era, when she was blacklisted for her political beliefs. Pentimento received critical acclaim for its insightful and candid portrayal of the author’s life and the people who influenced her.
-
Margaret Mead: a Life, by Jane Howard, 1984, 1st edition
Margaret Mead: A Life provides a comprehensive and detailed account of the life and work of the renowned anthropologist, Margaret Mead. The book covers Mead’s childhood, education, and her groundbreaking research on sexuality, gender, and culture. Howard’s writing style is engaging and informative, and she uses a variety of sources to paint a vivid picture of Mead’s life and the cultural context in which she lived and worked. The book also includes old black and white photographs of Mead, which add to the overall experience of reading about her life.
Overall, Margaret Mead: A Life is a must-read for anyone interested in anthropology, gender studies, or the history of science. It provides a fascinating insight into the life of one of the most influential anthropologists of the 20th century and sheds light on the challenges and opportunities faced by women in academia during that time. Howard’s book is well-researched, well-written, and provides a valuable contribution to the field of anthropology.
-
1987 First edition – Little Wilson and Big God: Being the First Part of Confessions of Anthony Burgess
Little Wilson and Big God: Being the First Part of Confessions of Anthony Burgess is a memoir by the renowned author Anthony Burgess. The book is a candid account of Burgess’s early life, including his childhood in Manchester, his time at university, and his experiences in the British Army during World War II. Burgess also discusses his early writing career, including his struggles to get published and his eventual success as a novelist. Throughout the book, Burgess reflects on his Catholic faith and its influence on his life and work.
The book provides a fascinating insight into the life of one of the most important writers of the 20th century. Burgess’s writing is witty, engaging, and often deeply personal, making this memoir a must-read for fans of his work. The book also offers a unique perspective on the cultural and political landscape of post-war Britain, as Burgess reflects on the social and intellectual trends of the time.
-
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 -
1982: Classic Chinese Cuisine, by Nina Simonds
Classic Chinese Cuisine by Nina Simonds serves as a comprehensive guide to Chinese cooking. The book covers all the essential techniques of Chinese cooking and includes over 200 recipes, each accompanied by photographs and illustrations. The book has been singled out as one of the all-time cookbook bibles and is considered a must-have for anyone interested in Chinese cuisine.
The softcover volume, published in 1982 by Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston, is an early edition of the book, likely a second or third printing. Despite some expected wear marks on the cover, the book is in excellent condition.
$140.00