First edition, first impression, of the second Paddington book, scarce with the jacket in such excellent condition. Bond's marmalade-loving bear first appeared in 1958 and gained widespread popularity, featuring in several television series and a successful film franchise. Queen Elizabeth II's fondness for the bear, and her appearance with him during a pre-recorded opening for the "Platinum Party at the Palace" in 2022, resulted in Paddington becoming a symbol for national mourning upon her death.
Octavo. Original blueish-green cloth, spine lettered in silver. With dust jacket.
Illustrations throughout by Peggy Fortnum.
Spine slightly toned, ends and upper corners gently bumped, a few spots on endpapers; jacket a touch foxed with a few short closed tears, spine panel sunned, tiny chips at rear corners, bright: a very good copy indeed in like jacket.
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