Monday, May 2, 2011

1929 Macrae Smith Illustrated Moby Dick

Here is a spectacular cover. Nantucket slay ride!

Recent addition to the collection it is inscribed Wayne Ralston, Jr Jan 14th 1929.

Wayne was the sellers relation, and judging by the penciling on the end papers, he was a kid when he had the book, it is so wonderful to have a child's well read book in the collection.

He penciled the word "misery" on the side of the book. SO much to speculate on, with that one word. We are so tempted to think that he found the story ponderous, as so many have, but what if that was some sort of 1929 cry for help just after the stock market crash? or some other nasty not even dared to think about?



5 comments:

  1. What would you price this book at?

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  2. I'm really trying to find out about this edition...this is the only place I've been able to find a picture of it...any help would be greatly appreciated.

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  3. We obtained this book for under $50 this year. The book is one of The Fairmount Classics that were published by Macrae Smith Company, Philadelphia.  It has 633 pages, measures  5 1/2" by 7 3/4", and has gold lettering and a colored illustration on the dark blue cover.  The binding is secure.  The pages are not torn, although a few have ink smudges or stains in the margins, and some corners are bent.

    As well, we were unable to find any reference for this book. It would appear to be somewhat scarce.

    Check this link too http://www.amazon.com/Deerslayer-Fenimore-Cooper-Fairmount-Classics/dp/B000Y8U4H2

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  4. I have this same book except for the fact that the lettering on the cover is all black, no gold at all. What could you tell me about that?

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  5. i have the same with the gold letters is this book form 1929?

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