Description
In 1916 Wizard of Oz author L. Frank Baum started a new “Bluebird” book series under the pseudonym Edith Van Dyne. “Van Dyne” was already popular as author of the Aunt Jane’s Nieces series books. Baum wrote several books in this new series before he died, starting with “Mary Louise” (the name of his favorite sister). This is that first book, copyright 1916 by Reilly & Britton. The Reilly & Britton imprint is considered the first & only printing of the 1st edition. This book is also in the A binding with the white ink on the cover (reference The Book Collector’s Guide to Baum).
The book is in very good condition, with front cover and spine quite clean, slight cock to binding. The cover is a darker, brighter blue than in appears in the photos. Inside, front hinge is starting to crack but still snug, and there is a former owners bookplate and and old pencil price on front endpapers. The frontispiece is present but with some light foxing to it and title page opposite. Pages are in very good condition overall. A nice copy.
