A Wonder- Book for Girls and Boys. With Engravings by Baker from Designs by Billings.
Boston: Ticknor, Reed, and Fields, 1852. First edition. Hardcover. First edition with the misprint "lifed" for "lifted" on the 3rd line of page 21. Attractively rebound by noted 20th century binder Curtis Walters. Green gilt half morocco, raised bands, gilt rules, title, author and Bost. 1852 on the spine. Marbled boards matching the end papers.
Following the success of The Scarlet Letter, Hawthorne attempted to capitalize on his fame with two children's books, A Wonder-Book and Tanglewood Tales. Both were very popular and have been celebrated for their retelling of myths for children. The six tales include "The Gorgon s Head," "The Paradise of Children," "The Three Golden Apples," "The Miraculous Pitcher," and "The Chimaera," as well as Hawthorn' s version of the King Midas tale, "The Golden Touch." First printing or issue with "lifed" for "lifted" on page 21, line 3. Clark A.18.1.a. BAL 7606. 8vo, (vi), 8-256pp, 7 plates. Handsome green gilt half morocco, raised bands, gilt rules, title, author and Bost. 1852 on the spine. Marbled boards matching the end papers. The tiniest bit of foxing on three early pages, a couple of early notations in book, overall in fine condition. Good + condition. Item #26368
Price: $500.00