[Rarebooks] FS: Possibly the First American Shape Book, RED RIDING HOOD by Louis Prang, 1863

[Charles Agvent]

 From our recent catalog: 
http://www.charlesagvent.com/agvent/images/pdfs/Winter2017.pdf

VERY, Lydia L[ouisa Anna]. RED RIDING HOOD. (Boston): (L. Prang & Co.), 
(1863). First Edition. Shape book: 6-5/8" x 2-3/8", [16] pages; stiff 
chromolithographed wrappers (sewn). Charming toy book in the shape of a 
standing Little Red Riding Hood, the wolf crouched around her ankles. L. 
Prang & Company issued a series of "Doll" books in 1863 which, along 
with other juveniles, toy books, and games, were among its first 
publications. Katherine McLinton in THE CHROMOLITHOGRAPHS OF LOUIS PRANG 
notes: "The tiny Doll books are some of the most interesting and 
fascinating items Prang published." In addition to "Red Riding Hood," 
Prang also issued "Robinson Crusoe," "Goody Two-Shoes" (also written by 
Lydia Very), "Cinderella," and "King Winter." They sold for 25 cents 
each or they could be purchased in "'an elegant fancy box,'" three to a 
box, as a Christmas gift. A few years later, a Prang catalogue declared 
that 'the style of these books originated with us' and "Red Riding Hood" 
may well have been the first American shape book. Mild overall wear with 
a few small chips to edges; covers darkened with one or two creases. 
Scattered small, mild staining to some leaves. Very Good.

Lydia Very (1823-1901), sister of Transcendentalist poet Jones Very, 
both designed and wrote the verse which tells the story. Red Riding 
Hood's adventure is turned into a morality tale in which the little girl 
disobeys her mother. After her encounter with her would-be devourer, Red 
Riding Hood "said the fright had taught her/To mind her mother dear." 
McClinton, Katharine M., THE CHROMOLITHOGRAPHS OF LOUIS PRANG, pp. 45-46 
(RED RIDING HOOD pictured at page 46). (#018356)        $300.00

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