1940 Rare First Edition - Moldy Warp the Mole Illustrated by Margaret Tempest

Author: Alison Uttley. Illustrated by Margaret Tempest.
Title: Moldy Warp the Mole.
Publisher: London, Collins Clear-Type Press, 1940. First Edition (stated).
Language: Text in English.
Size: 7 x 6 inches.
Pages: 87 pages.
Binding: Attractive and near fine original grey boards binding with an illustrated circular pictorial plate on the upper cover and gilt titling to the spine and front board (hinges fine, overall slightly scuffed - as shown) under a protective removable mylar cover.
Content:  Near fine content (bright, tight and clean, signature of a previous owner on the upper margin of first endpaper -as shown).
Illustrations: Fully illustrated in color throughout by Margaret Tempest. Illustrations are bright and complete, capturing the gentle whimsy of animal life in pastoral England.

The book: A beautifully illustrated First edition of Moldy Warp the Mole, one of Alison Uttley's most beloved tales in her Little Grey Rabbit series. In this volume, Moldy Warp becomes enchanted by a mysterious golden-eyed stone, launching a series of delightful woodland adventures. As always, Uttley's pastoral storytelling is elevated by the dreamy, detailed watercolors of Margaret Tempest, making this a collectible favorite for fans of vintage children’s books.

The author: Alison Uttley (1884–1976) was an English writer best known for her enchanting series of rural animal stories, particularly the Little Grey Rabbit books. A physicist by training and a farmer's daughter by heart, she infused her stories with both scientific curiosity and a deep love of the English countryside.

The illustrator: Margaret Tempest (1892–1982), a key figure in British children's book illustration, is celebrated for her soft, charming watercolors that perfectly complement Uttley’s text. A founding member of the Chelsea Illustrators Club, her illustrations have become iconic representations of 20th-century British nursery storytelling.