Books

Folio. Pp. 46. Illustrated ownership page (space for owner's name remains blank). Full-color frontis. with tissue guard. Title page vignette and illustrated page of dramatis personae. With eleven full-page color plates and nine large color illustrations in text. Illustrated endpapers. Publisher's black cloth with color pictorial plate mounted on front board. A superb, fresh copy housed in a striking custom black morocco clamshell box. Often cited as the most attractive book illustrations by Parrish.Referenced by Barbara Bader as "the one American work of consequence" of children's picture books of the 1920s, she suggests Parrish's elaborate illustrations may have been chosen by the publisher "to demonstrate the capability of the new Western [Printing Company] plant in Poughkeepsie," used by Scribner's, which allowed for the elaborate four-color process to be realized (American Picturebooks from Noah's Ark to the Beast Within, p. 126).The notably bright condition is at odds with the condition of most juvenilia; binding now protected with a removable, clear archival sleeve within the clamshell box.

"The Knave of Hearts" by Louise Saunders is a whimsical romantic fantasy novel published in 1925. Set in a fairy-tale world, the story revolves around the titular character, the Knave, and his adventures. The Knave is on a quest to win the heart of the princess, and the narrative unfolds with a blend of humor, adventure, and romance. The novel explores themes of love, identity, and the fantastical elements of a fairy-tale realm, providing readers with a delightful escape into a charming and imaginative world. Saunders' storytelling captivates the reader with vivid descriptions, engaging characters, and a plot that combines elements of classic fairy tales with a unique and modern twist. As the Knave navigates through enchanting landscapes, encounters magical beings, and faces various challenges, readers are taken on a journey that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. The author's prose is rich with wit and charm, creating a timeless story that continues to enchant readers with its timeless appeal. "The Knave of Hearts" remains a delightful classic that showcases Saunders' storytelling prowess and her ability to transport readers to a magical world where love, adventure, and whimsy intertwine in a captivating narrative.