Beastly Verse: Oliphaunt
Contemporary Books (Calico Books), 1989. First edition thus.
A charming illustrated board book edition of Oliphaunt, Tolkien’s playful poem describing the great war-elephants of the South. Originally appearing in The Lord of the Rings, the poem is here presented as a standalone children’s volume in the Beastly Verse series.
This edition was published in 1989 by Contemporary Books under the Calico Books imprint. The copyright page confirms:
ISBN 0-8062-4353-9.
The book is illustrated throughout in full colour by Hank Hinton, whose lively and expressive artwork brings Tolkien’s verse vividly to life across double-page spreads.
This is the true first Calico Books edition of 1989.
The volume is issued as a sturdy board book with rounded corners, pictorial laminated boards, and no dust jacket as published. The original price of $3.95 remains printed on the rear cover.
Condition
The book is in Near Fine condition. The boards are clean and bright, with only very light handling visible. The binding is firm and square. The pages are fresh and unmarked. A particularly attractive copy.
A delightful Tolkien collectible — increasingly sought after in fine condition — and a charming addition to any Tolkien poetry or illustrated collection.
Pictures (click to enlarge):
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