The Wide World [Hardcover] edited by M. A. L. Lane

Description

The Wide World [Hardcover] edited by M. A. L. Lane

The Wide World is part of the “Youth’s Companion Series” of Geographical Readers, published in 1902. Compiled and edited by M. A. L. Lane, it aims to introduce young readers to diverse landscapes and cultures around the globe through engaging essays, illustrations, and narratives. This volume reflects an early 20th-century American perspective on geography and world cultures, as written for school-age learners. Though antiquated in certain ways, it remains a fascinating historical artifact of childhood education—especially concerning how geography was taught before modern global awareness. Collectors and enthusiasts of children’s literature or historical textbooks find such volumes appealing for their period-specific illustrations and social context.

SKU: VBe-054
Title: The Wide World
Subtitle: Youth’s Companion Series (Geographical Readers)
Author/Editor: M. A. L. Lane
Year of Publication: 1902 (copyright Perry Mason Company); publication by Ginn & Company
Edition/Printing: Not stated (likely early printing)
Publisher: Ginn & Company (Boston, New York, Chicago, London, etc.)
Binding: Hardcover (grayish-blue cloth with elaborate decorative motifs)
Dust Jacket: None
Book Club Edition: No
Former Library Book: No (no library markings beyond a small stamped code: “G-6 or 9-1-10” on front endpaper)
Damage/Condition Notes: Color fading, water stains, corner/spine wear, personal inscription on front pastedown, interior pages clean but toned
Pages Clean? Mostly clean, some age-toning, no major tears
Foxing Present? Mild or minimal

Genre and Sub-Genre
Primary Genre: Children’s Educational / Textbook
Sub-Genre: Early 20th-Century Geographical Reader
Condition Notes:
Covers/Boards: Grayish-blue cloth with elaborate decorative stamped frames, vignettes, and lettering. Noticeable fading and discoloration on front and especially on the rear cover (water staining or liquid marks).
Spine: Some rubbing at crown and foot, text still legible.
Corners: Mild fraying and bumping.
Interior: Pages exhibit age-toning but are largely clean. Occasional handling wear; no major tears or missing pages.
Binding: Solid; the hinges remain intact despite some edge wear to the endpapers.
Markings: Presentation inscription on front pastedown: “Presented to Elmer Beaver for having improved the most in spelling. Mary L. Whiteside.” Also a small ink stamp or code on front endpaper. No other marks or library stamps.
Overall Grade: Good- or Fair+ condition due to visible external wear and staining, but complete and intact internally.