Books

Hardcover. Number 40 of 350 copies signed and numbered by renowned wood-engraver Barry Moser. The appreciation was written by Justin Schiller, one of the world's foremost experts and dealers in children's books. This lavishly produced book from Moser's famed Press is one of five magnificent books published by the Press between 1982 and 1985. The other titles included Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, Through the Looking Glass, Frankenstein, and Huckleberry Finn. After that period the Press resumed issuing smaller books. Bound by David Bourbeau in cream cloth with an oval design in gilt encircling the title. Printed by master printer Harold P. McGrath in black Van Dijck type on Mohawk Letterpress archival paper. The chapter titles, running titles, opening initials and page numbers are printed in several colors that reflect the story line: first blue, changing to green at page 110, then to red at page 213, and finally gray at page 250 as the story returns to Kansas. The title pages are a double-spread printed in black, blue, yellow, green and red. With 62 wood engraved illustrations. Housed in a near fine clamshell box with very light sunning and very small nick to front cover. The book is in fine condition. Measures 12 x 13 inches. 268 pages plus acknowledgments and colophon. PRI/092624.

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz is a children's novel written by L. Frank Baum. It tells the story of Dorothy, a young farm girl who is whisked away to the magical Land of Oz by a tornado. Alongside her dog Toto, she meets a Scarecrow, a Tin Woodman, and a Cowardly Lion, and they journey together to the Emerald City to meet the Wizard of Oz. Along the way, they face various challenges and the wicked Witch of the West. Dorothy's goal is to return home to Kansas, and she eventually discovers that the power to do so has been with her all along. The story is celebrated for its vivid imagery, and the underlying message that true bravery, love, and intelligence come from within.