Our Little Mexican Cousin [INSCRIBED BY AUTHOR]

Description

Binding is coming apart from the book. The preface is missing a page. 1905 edition with color imprinted cover. Some pages have marks and a few are torn. Readable copy of an old book.

This inscribed copy of “Our Little Mexican Cousin” by Edward C. Butler offers a fascinating glimpse into early 20th-century perspectives on Mexico and its culture. Published in 1905, during the tumultuous Mexican Revolution, this book aimed to introduce American children to the daily life and customs of their southern neighbors through the fictional lens of a young Mexican boy. While the narrative likely reflects the biases and stereotypes of its era, it remains a valuable artifact for understanding how Mexico was portrayed to young readers in the United States at that time.

Butler’s “Little Cousin” series sought to foster cross-cultural understanding and appreciation among children, albeit through a colonial lens. As an early example of multicultural children’s literature, these books hold historical significance for their attempt to bridge cultural divides, even if their execution may seem problematic by today’s standards.

Despite its well-worn condition, this inscribed copy offers collectors a unique opportunity to own a piece of literary history, bearing the author’s personal mark. Its flaws and imperfections only add to its charm and authenticity, serving as a tangible reminder of the book’s age and the journey it has undertaken over more than a century.