The Robinson Crusoe Reader by Julia Darrow Cowles (1906 Hardcover w/o DJ)



This is an abridged edition of "Robinson Crusoe" by Daniel Defoe, modified to be performed as dramatic play or reading in elementary school classrooms. The story is condensed in the 1st 100 pages, followed by 63 lesson suggestions and a list of words introduced in the text.


Julia Darrow Cowles (1862-1919), wrote to bring both folk & classical literature and plays alive in the classroom. Her work strove to enhance engaging story-telling techniques so as to be suitable for dramatic readings in the classroom.


Illustrations are signed by Frank Irving Wetherbee (1870-1928) who also created art instruction books. He was nominated for the Art Director Oscar for his work in the 1918 Academy Award winning silent movie "Tarzan of the Apes."


Early 20th century hardcover has green cloth boards with black lettering on spine & front along with red & black illustration on front cover, but no dust jacket. Rear gutter torn and front endpages separating from text, but text is bound and complete. Text has been read and pages handled, sometimes with dirty fingers. Prior owner names on ffep with dates as early as 1916 (adds no value), but no other markings found in text.



Copyright 1906. No edition/printing information found. 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.


Very Good – How you or I might take care of a book, closer to “as new” than standard. Might show ownership.


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 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!