When you're shopping for antiquarian collectible books, the hardest decision is usually how much wear to accept. This 1868 children's natural history book from the "Pictures and Stories of Animals" series is a genuine piece of 19th-century publishing, and at $15.00 it is a low-cost way into that market. But it is also a very worn copy, so the real question is whether you value content and character over pristine condition.
Quick Verdict
Buy this book if you want a complete, readable piece of 1868 book history rather than a collector's showpiece. It is a full 150-page volume, and the price is modest. Skip it if you need a clean, tight example for a display shelf.
Pictures and Stories of Animals (Tenney, 1868)
Written by Mrs. Sanborn (Abby) Tenney and published by Sheldon and Company in New York City, this hardcover first edition measures 4-1/2 by 7 inches and contains 150 pages of illustrated natural history. The volume covers insects, crustaceans, and worms, with line drawings accompanying the text. The pages are yellowed but not brittle, and no pages are missing - a strong reason to consider this copy. The main limitation is the cover board separating at the spine, a sign of heavy use.
What Stands Out
The specialized subject matter is the main draw here, and the volume is priced for the condition you are getting. It is an unusual addition to a shelf of 19th-century educational books.
Meaningful Trade-offs
The title says it plainly: "Complete, Very Worn." This copy is ex-library, with stamped marks on the inside front and rear covers. The binding is intact, but the outer board is coming apart at the spine, so casual handling may loosen it further. Pages are yellowed, though not brittle. If you insist on tight covers and clean interiors, this one will not satisfy. If you accept well-used antique condition, it is an honest example.
Who It Suits
This book fits collectors of 19th-century children's literature, fans of early natural history illustration, and anyone building a shelf of affordable American imprints. Because the content is focused on insects, crustaceans, and worms, it also appeals to educators or curious readers who want a period view of those animals. It is less suited to someone seeking a flawless gift copy or a pristine collectible.
Bottom Line
At $15.00, Pictures and Stories of Animals is a reasonable entry into 19th-century collectible books. You get a complete first edition and accept ex-library stamps and the obvious wear. If those flaws feel like honest signs of age rather than deal-breakers, this is a compelling little volume.
