FIRST EDITION OF THE CRICKET IN TIMES SQUARE

SELDEN, George. The Cricket in Times Square. New York: Farrar, Straus and Cudahy, (1960). Octavo, original mauve cloth, original dust jacket. $1800.

First edition of this children’s favorite, illustrated by Garth Williams, signed by Selden on the title page.

"One of those rare works both critically applauded by adults and beloved by children, [this book] secured [Selden] a place of acclaim among writers of animal fantasy. The book has earned frequent comparisons with E.B. White's Charlotte's Web for animal characters who are brought vividly to life and for its parallel themes of loyal and enduring friendship… Selden's work will endure as a touchstone in the field of children's books" (Silvey, 583-84). Wonderfully illustrated by Garth Williams, who also illustrated not only Charlotte's Web but also Stuart Little.

Interior fine, mild discoloration to cloth; only very minor rubs to spine ends of bright, about-fine dust jacket. A beautiful copy, scarce signed.