Nature's Secrets, Part I and II (two volumes, both inscribed)
NY: The University Society, Inc, 1933. First thus. Hardcover. A set of two volumes, each inscribed by the editor. Volume one reads on the front free end paper: "Inscribed for Archibald Johnston at the request of Phyllis Brindley, the giver of the book, by Clyde Fisher, the editor of the book, American Museum of Natural History, New York City, August 20, 1945." The second volume, also on the FFEP: "Inscribed for Acrhibald Johnston, with good wishes, Clyde Fisher." Uncommon signed in any edition. The recipient is probably the president of Bethlehem Steel Company in Pennsylvania who had an active interest in natural history and whose estate became the Archibald Johnston Conservation Area. George Clyde Fisher was a curator at the American Museum of Natural History and the first head of its Hayden Planetarium, leading astronomical excursions around the world, for example to observe solar eclipses. A compendium guide to more than 1,000 animal and plant species, organized in sections covering trees, flowers, birds, mammals, fish, insects, spiders, and amphibians. Some sections are curated and written by other notable naturalists of the day including Lee S. Crandell, Oliver Perry Medsger, Cyrus R. Crosby, Joseph S. Illick. Others are built on articles from naturalists past and present including Edward Howe Forbush, John Burroughs, T. Gilbert Pearson, and John T. Nichols. The second volume finishes with "Naturalists Every Boy Should Know" which includes Audubon, Agassiz, Thoreau, Muir, Burroughs, and Seton. Rich with black and white illustrations and color plates. Nature's Secrets was published originally as one volume by Halcyon House in 1927 and that same year appeared under a different title as five volumes from Doubleday. Here, five years later, it is repackaged as two, each more than 400 pages. It is pitched at a youth audience, but its depth and comprehensiveness will speak to anyone. Both volumes in green cloth; near fine with light rubbing to corners and spine ends. A few smudges on Part I's upper board. A handsome set, uncommon or scarce signed. Near fine. Item #1972
Price: $950.00 save 5% $902.50