Bibliomania: A Tale by Gustave Flaubert (1954 1st English Edition Hardcover no DJ)

• Author: Gustave Flaubert (1821–1880)

• Illustrator: Arthur Wragg (1903-1976)

• Publisher: The Rodale Press London, England UK 1954

Very attractive edition from Rodale Press. Superb illustrations by Wragg. Flaubert wrote this in 1836 (shortly before his 15th birthday), and the endpapers reproduce Flaubert's wonderful handwriting. The original manuscript was owned by Stefan Zweig, and permission to use this was granted by the writer's heirs. This is a gorgeous pocket-sized hardback of Flaubert's first published work, in English. It was issued without a jacket, but with decorated cloth boards.

Rodale Press promoted this book as part of their Miniature Books Series.

Gustave Flaubert (1821–1880) was a French novelist. Highly influential, he has been considered the leading exponent of literary realism in his country.

Arthur Wragg (1903–1976) was a British illustrator. His stark poster-like artwork often dealt with themes of social alienation and spiritual emptiness.

Hardcover is as new, showing minor wear on exterior and no signs of use within interior. Tight, clean and unmarked. Pages are not discolored.

• Size: 12mo - over 6¾ - 7¾" tall, 42pp.

• Condition: Fine (As New) Hardcover, without DJ – Always privately owned. 1st English Edition.

First published in 1837, this story was not published on its own in French until 1926. Likely this 1954 Rodale Edition is the 1st in English and was not copyrighted because the work was in public domain. Book printed and bound in England. No ISBN, LCCN nor MSR.

Notes on Condition/Edition ratings:

Fine – means like new, but any book produced over 10 years ago isn't “brand new” or even “new.” Booksellers needed some word to describe this...

Like New – A new book, no marks no damage (except maybe remainder marks or shelf-wear) except not obtained directly from the publisher or in packaging from the publisher.

Good – How someone else might take care of a book. Also referred to as “standard.” This is the most likely condition for books of this age & title, shows the book has been read or previously owned.

Acceptable – How a young child, student or a librarian might take care of a book. (Either trying to make sure someone doesn't steal it by plastering ownership everywhere, filled it with copious notes or a book that has been damaged.)

Poor – Combination of “acceptable” factors above. Most likely with water damage as well. Might have missing pages (you should ask).

Near – Means “almost” in an optimistic sense. e.g., “Near Fine” means very good, but on the high end.

1st Thus – Unique somehow, maybe 1st paperback, new illustrator, misprint or even the 1st edition. A collector might desire this copy.

Thanks for looking!