1890 Rare Book - History of Gutta-Percha Willie by George MacDonald
Author: George MacDonald. Illustrated by Arthur Hughes.
Title: The History of Gutta-Percha Willie: The Working Genius.
Publisher: London, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Dublin, Blackie & Son, Limited, no date (1890).
Language: Text in English.
Size: 7 x 5 inches.
Pages: vi-212 pages + publisher's catalog.
Binding: Attractive and very good original Victorian green cloth binding with black and gilt titles and an illustration of Willie on the front cover. Gilt lettering on the spine (hinges fine, overall slightly worn, soiled and scuffed - as shown) under a protective removable mylar cover.
Content: Good to very good content (bright, tight and clean, some light foxing or staining mainly on the title page and on the opposite pages of the plates - as shown, gift note of a previous 1892 owner on the half-title page - as shown).
Illustrations: Illustrated with eight exquisite engravings by Arthur Hughes, depicting key moments in Willie's adventures.
The book: This beautifully bound Victorian edition of Gutta-Percha Willie is a charming Victorian children's novel by George MacDonald. The story follows young Willie, an industrious and inventive boy, as he learns various trades and applies his boundless curiosity to the world around him. Written by one of the most influential fantasy writers of the 19th century, this book is a delightful tale of perseverance, ingenuity, and the spirit of hard work.
The author: George MacDonald (1824–1905) was a Scottish author, poet, and minister, widely regarded as a pioneer of modern fantasy literature. His works, including The Princess and the Goblin and At the Back of the North Wind, influenced later writers such as C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. MacDonald’s moral storytelling and deep understanding of human nature make his works timeless classics.
The illustrator: Arthur Hughes (1832–1915) was a prominent Pre-Raphaelite illustrator and artist known for his delicate and detailed drawings. His work in Gutta-Percha Willie brings the narrative to life, adding depth and charm to MacDonald’s inspiring tale.