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This pretty little book (9 1/2" x 7 1/2") is an excellent example of everyday life in the late 1800’s. The illustrations depict the dress, household living styles, and every day activities of children with their kittens in a typical household of the day. Condition is Good. Normal wear and aging conditions for its age. Wear and some fraying along the spine. The rear gutter is torn, so the pages have separated from the back cover, but overall the cover and pages are still intact. The pages were bound with stitching by the publisher. Pages are darkening and brittle with age, but text and illustrations are still very clear. Inscription inside front cover is from Santa Claus 1896.
Cassell & Co is British publishing company, founded in 1848 by John Cassell. By the 1890s it had become a well-respected international publishing group company. Children’s books were just one category of books they were known for. After the turn of the Century, they became more known for their magazine publications. There continued to be a tug-and-pull between various owners on whether to focus on the book or magazine business. It was eventually taken in pieces by various other owners. What the Kittens Said is a rare surviving product example of the highly respected international publisher of its day.
Notes on Condition/Edition ratings: Fine – means like new, but any book produced over 10 years ago isn't “brand new”. Booksellers needed some word to describe this... Very Good – How you or I might take care of a book, closer to “as new” than standard. Good – How you might take care of a book. Also referred to as “standard.” The most likely condition for books of this age, shows the book has been read or previously owned. Acceptable – How a 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. |