Description
Here is a rare, collectible copy of the Life and Adventures of Santa Claus, one of L. Frank Baum’s earliest books. Many different editions of this book exist, but this is the most desirable. Not only is this the Bowen-Merrill first edition, but also a first printing complete with all 20 color plates by Mary Cowles Clark! Much less common than the 12-plate later printing, and very difficult to find in complete, decent condition. Section Headings are Book First, Book Second, Book Third (as opposed to 2nd state’s Youth, Manhood and Old Age).
This book is in good to very good condition. The front cover has light staining/fading to front top left and rear bottom left, not affecting interior pages. Spine is still strong and lettering clear. Light corner bumping and minor loss to white snow coloring. Inside, binding is tight and hinges are intact except for 1″ at top of front hinge and 1/2″ at bottom of rear one. The color endpapers and pages are in good overall condition, with light soiling and prior owner’s name at back of half-title page. Light foxing opposite title page. All 20 color plates are intact and in very good overall condition, two with marginal closed tears and one loose but laid in.
I’m very happy to be able to offer this book for sale, but I’d also be just as happy to keep it in my personal collection! 😉
