Christmas Books
Throughout the years, children's books, especially
those depicting a holiday theme, have remained consistently popular
Christmas gifts. During the Victorian era, some of the most highly
sought after children's Christmas books were produced. Publishers
included McLoughlin, Nister, Graham, Donohue, Hurst and Dutton. Each
book contained various Christmas or seasonal stories and poems by
different authors. Some books were part of a series. Santa Claus and
children dominated the cover designs. It was common for books from
this period to be undated.
The actual construction of the book consisted of paper-covered front
and back boards and a linen spine. The pages themselves were
manufactured from heavy stock and stapled to the spine. The use of
bold, brightly colored lithography was introduced as printing
processes became more advanced in the latter half of the 19th
century. The book's cover board would be colorfully illustrated and
the interior would contain one or more color book plates in addition
to many black and white illustrations.
When purchasing an antique children’s book, always examine it
closely. Condition is paramount. Is the cover loose? Are the pages
separated or separating from the spine? Are there any missing or
torn pages? Have the color plates been removed? Check for stains,
insect damage, musty odors, pencil marks and finger smudges.
Age-darkened pages are acceptable. "Foxing" (brown spots) is not.
Minor wear is to be expected. Extensive wear significantly reduces
the value of the book. Most importantly, handle an antique
children's book carefully so it lasts for many more Christmases to
come.
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