Books

268 pages. 33.5 x 30.5 cm. Limited edition, copy 200 of 350 illustrated and signed by Barry Moser. With an appreciation by Justin G. Shiller, printed by Harold McGrath in Van Dijck type on archival paper with calligraphy by Yvette Rutledge. Sixty three illustrations by Moser. Title page in five color. Shiller notes, "Baum's conscious intention of creating wonder-tales for the modern child continued beyond his great success with 'The Wonderful Wizard.' Yet although he wrote many good fantasies, none ever attained the popularity of his first major work." Also enclosed, two copies of "Forty-Seven Days to Oz.," 23 x 15 cm., unpaginated and printed in 1985. Pennyroyal Checklist 43. Moser chronicles his account his daily thoughts and work in completing his images for the book, also noting 135 preparatory studies were executed in that time period. Some of his drawings for the book pictured herein with dates for each design. Orig. cream boards covers lettered and decorated in gilt and blind. Fine in fine cloth clam shell box.

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.