Books

London: Sampson Low, Marston, Searle, 1882. Hardcover. Near Fine. Second edition, first issue. Quarto. 190pp., plus four pages of ads. Parchment over beveled boards soiled, particularly at the edges, a few spots to the frontispiece tissue guard and with the paper of the front hinge split (but remarkably sound), suggesting it may have been mended, a good copy. Stoker's first book. This copy is Inscribed by the author on the half-title: "Richard Butler from Bram Stoker 1887." At that time Butler was the editor of *The Referee*, a Sunday newspaper that combined coverage of two unlikely subjects: sports and theatre. In an interesting coincidence, Butler, writing as Richard Henry (with co-writer Henry Chance Newton), penned a Christmas burlesque for the 1887 holiday season entitled *Frankenstein, or The Vampire's Victim*. The production was, depending on the source, either a disaster that closed after one week or a hit that stretched into the next year. Either way it was during at this…

"Under the Sunset" by Bram Stoker is a lesser-known work by the renowned author of "Dracula." This collection of children's stories, published in 1881, presents a series of eight enchanting and imaginative tales that delve into themes of morality, fantasy, and the supernatural. The stories within "Under the Sunset" transport readers to whimsical worlds where children encounter fantastical beings and embark on remarkable adventures. Each tale unfolds with a sense of wonder, often pitting the forces of good against malevolent entities or exploring the consequences of moral choices. Stoker weaves a rich tapestry of narratives that resonate with young audiences while subtly introducing deeper themes. In stories like "Under the Sunset" and "The Invisible Giant," he crafts vivid landscapes where children confront mystical creatures, navigate moral dilemmas, and triumph over adversity through courage and virtue. Throughout the collection, Stoker's fascination with the supernatural is evident. "The Invisible Giant," for instance, follows a boy named Tim who encounters a giant capable of invisibility. The story revolves around the consequences of greed and the importance of selflessness. In "The Shadow Builder," Stoker explores the power of words and the consequences of speaking carelessly. This cautionary tale follows the adventures of Willy, a boy who learns that his idle boasts can manifest into reality through a mysterious shadow builder. The tales in "Under the Sunset" often convey moral lessons without being overly didactic, captivating readers with their engaging plots and fantastical elements. Stoker showcases his ability to create imaginative worlds where children navigate magical realms, encounter supernatural forces, and ultimately learn valuable lessons about bravery, kindness, and the repercussions of their choices. While "Under the Sunset" may not have gained the same level of popularity as "Dracula," it remains a testament to Stoker's storytelling prowess and his ability to craft captivating narratives that entertain and educate, making it a charming addition to the realm of children's literature.