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First edition, first impression, one of 2,000 copies. This is the first instalment in the series that "changed British children's literature, affected a whole generation's view of holidays, helped to create the national image of the English Lake District, and added Arthur Ransome's name to the select list of classic British children's authors" (Hunt, p. 13). Cape commissioned Steven Spurrier for the illustrations, but Ransome disliked his drawings and only Spurrier's designs for the jacket, endpapers, frontispiece, and title page vignette were used. After Ransome successfully illustrated Peter Duck (1932), the third book in the series, he decided to do his own drawings for the rest of the books, including later editions of those already published. As noted by Wayne G. Hammond, "Swallows and Amazons sold slowly at first, taking two years to earn its advance of £100, but eventually its sales at home and abroad, and the sales of its sequels, repaid Cape's investment many times over. The Autumn 1948 number of Now & Then, the house journal of Jonathan Cape, announced that the one millionth copy, of the total copies printed of the twelve books in the 'Swallows and Amazons' series, would soon be on sale." The first film adaptation of Swallows and Amazons was released in 1974 including Virginia McKenna in the cast. A second adaptation was released in 2016 starring Andrew Scott and Harry Enfield. A musical version of the book was premiered by the National First edition, first impression, one of 2,000 copies. This is the first instalment in the series that "changed British children's literature, affected a whole generation's view of holidays, helped to create the national image of the English Lake District, and added Arthur Ransome's name to the select list of classic British children's authors" (Hunt, p. 13). Cape commissioned Steven Spurrier for the illustrations, but Ransome disliked his drawings and only Spurrier's designs for the jacket, endpapers, frontispiece, and title page vignette were used. After Ransome successfully illustrated Peter Duck (1932), the third book in the series, he decided to do his own drawings for the rest of the books, including later editions of those already published. As noted by Wayne G. Hammond, "Swallows and Amazons sold slowly at first, taking two years to earn its advance of £100, but eventually its sales at home and abroad, and the sales of its sequels, repaid Cape's investment many times over. The Autumn 1948 number of Now & Then, the house journal of Jonathan Cape, announced that the one millionth copy, of the total copies printed of the twelve books in the 'Swallows and Amazons' series, would soon be on sale." The first film adaptation of Swallows and Amazons was released in 1974 including Virginia McKenna in the cast. A second adaptation was released in 2016 starring Andrew Scott and Harry Enfield. A musical version of the book was premiered by the National Theatre in 2010. READ MORE Octavo. Original green cloth, spine and front cover lettered in gilt, publisher's device on rear cover in blind, map endpapers. With dust jacket. Housed in a green quarter morocco solander box by the Chelsea Bindery. Frontispiece and title page vignette by Stephen Spurrier. Some colour variance to cloth, head and foot of spine slightly bumped, browning to free endpapers; jacket worn with minor loss and short closed tears at extremities, minor spots of staining, spine toned, unclipped: a very good copy in a very good jacket. Hammond A25(a). Peter Hunt, Approaching Arthur Ransome, 1992.

"Swallows and Amazons" by Arthur Ransome is a classic children's novel published in 1930. Set in the idyllic landscape of the English Lake District, the story revolves around the Walker and Blackett siblings. During a summer vacation, the children embark on sailing adventures on two small boats – the Swallow and the Amazon. The narrative beautifully captures the spirit of exploration, imagination, and the joys of a carefree childhood. The Walker siblings, John, Susan, Titty, and Roger, along with their friends, Nancy and Peggy Blackett, form two rival sailing crews. The Swallows, led by John, and the Amazons, led by Nancy, engage in friendly competition, establishing a fictional world of pirates and explorers. The children's imaginative play is fueled by their surroundings, as they navigate the waters of Coniston Water, camping on wild islands, and encountering various challenges. Ransome skillfully weaves elements of adventure, friendship, and nature into the narrative. The children's sailing expeditions are not just physical journeys but also symbolic of their growing independence and ability to navigate life's challenges. The author's love for sailing and the outdoors is evident in the vivid descriptions of the Lake District, instilling a sense of wonder and appreciation for nature in the young protagonists. The novel also introduces Captain Flint, the uncle of the Walker siblings, who adds an adult perspective to the story. Captain Flint's presence brings an element of mystery and authority, while his connection with the children reinforces themes of family and mentorship. "Swallows and Amazons" is not only a tale of adventure but also a celebration of the unbridled imagination of children. Ransome captures the essence of childhood, portraying the transformative power of play, friendship, and the great outdoors. The novel's enduring appeal lies in its timeless portrayal of the magic and wonder inherent in a summer of exploration and camaraderie.