The Wonderful Wizard of Oz
West Hatfield, MA: Pennyroyal Press, 1985. Hardcover. Number 201 of 350 copies, signed and numbered on the colophon by Barry Moser. Justin Schiller, the prominent children's book specialist, also signed his Appreciation on page 268. Schiller's piece includes a biography of Baum, and the history of his publishing career of which Wizard of Oz was by far the most successful. Schiller offers an informative and nuanced analysis of Oz - both its plot and characters, and its impact on children's literature. This magnificent book was published by the acclaimed printmaker and illustrator Moser at his Pennyroyal Press following the great success of his Moby Dick, which was published with great fanfare. The Press followed this with another grand publication, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, and then published four other important books in quick succession including this title, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. These were the last "grand" books issued by Moser for ten years. The book begins with Baum's introduction and a List of Chapters and Illustrations. There are 24 chapters and 62 wood engravings by Moser, both as full page and text illustrations. The book was printed by master printer Harold P. McGrath at the Press. It was designed by Barry Moser. Beautifully bound by David Bourbeau in cream paper boards with the title printed boldly in gilt on the front cover, encircled in a gilt outline. Printed in Van Dijck type on archival Mohawk Letterpress paper. Hand composition was done at the Press by P. Chase Twichell and the calligraphy was the work of Yvette Rutledge. Housed in a beige cloth clamshell box with small gilt title label to spine. This copy does not have the pamphlet titled "Forty-seven Days to Oz" that accompanied copies of the book. In fine condition. Measures 12 x 13 inches. 268 pages. PRI/030624. Fine. More