Books

New York: Charles L. Webster, 1885. First edition. First Issue. With 174 black and white illustrations by E.W. Kemble. Large 8vo, original publisher's sheep binding with the red and black lettering labels on the spine. It is estimated that only 2500 copies were issued in this binding. 366 pp. A very pleasing and handsome copy. Light, expert and unobtrusive refurbishment to the joints. FIRST EDITION OF ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT AND GREATEST BOOKS IN AMERICAN LITERATURE. A very handsome copy with the following earliest setting states as listed by BAL: "Him and another Man" is listed at page 88, BAL's first state; page 57, eleventh line from the bottom reads "...with the was...," BAL's first state; page 155 with final 5 “stamped in” by hand (see Underhill), and matching the original font in the setting of the page number (no priority, occurring randomly in all three states independent of other major signs of first printing sheets, but this setting seems to appear…

"The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" by Mark Twain is a timeless novel set in the fictional town of St. Petersburg, inspired by Twain's own experiences growing up in Hannibal, Missouri. The story follows the mischievous and imaginative young protagonist, Tom Sawyer, as he navigates the trials and triumphs of boyhood in the mid-1800s. Tom, a clever and adventurous boy, lives with his Aunt Polly, a kind-hearted but stern woman who tries to instill discipline in him. However, Tom's free spirit often leads him into mischief. Alongside his friends, the rebellious Huckleberry Finn and the charming Becky Thatcher, Tom finds himself embroiled in various adventures. The narrative unfolds with Tom cleverly avoiding punishment for his misdeeds, such as tricking his friends into whitewashing a fence for him or sneaking out at night to play pirates on a deserted island. His antics, including witnessing a murder, exploring caves, and hunting for treasure, keep the story vibrant and engaging. Throughout the novel, Twain vividly portrays the simplicity and joys of childhood, capturing the essence of growing up in a small town where everyday life is filled with fun, imagination, and a longing for freedom. From attending school to navigating romantic feelings for Becky Thatcher, Tom's experiences resonate with readers of all ages. The climax of the story revolves around Tom and Huck's discovery of stolen treasure, leading to a series of suspenseful events that eventually uncover the true identity of the villainous Injun Joe. The novel is not just a tale of adventure but also delves into themes of friendship, bravery, and the moral growth of its characters. As the story concludes, Tom emerges as a hero, showcasing his courage by revealing the truth about the murder and securing justice. Twain's portrayal of the innocence and exuberance of childhood, combined with his sharp social commentary and humor, has solidified "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" as a classic in American literature, beloved by readers worldwide for its timeless charm and rich storytelling.