Top Tips for Collecting Rare Books by Walter R Brooks, by Vic Zoschak

Top Tips for Collecting Rare Books by Walter R Brooks

By Vic Zoschak

Tavistock Books

 

When Walter R Brooks published To and Again in 1927, he had no idea that the children's novel would grow into a beloved series of 26 books. Indeed, the novel (later retitled Freddy Goes to Florida) proved a pivotal work in Brooks' career as an author. To this day, Brooks has a devoted following, as evidenced by groups like Friends of Freddy. If you're a fan of Brooks, you may find yourself building a collection of Freddy the Pig books and related works. As you delve into the world of collecting rare books, keep these guidelines in mind.

 

·         Remember that condition is everything. The value of a rare book is directly affected by its condition. If you're building a Freddy collection, focus on buying the best copies you can afford: both the book itself and the original dust jacket should be as pristine as possible. The dust jackets of Freddy books are particularly appealing, which simply makes an edition with the dust jacket more visually appealing. But moreover, the dust jacket makes the book "complete."

·         Learn how to identify a first edition. Collectors value true first editions most highly. The Freddy series was published by Alfred A Knopf between 1927 and 1958. From 1927 to 1932 or 1933, the publisher would include "second printing," "third printing," etc to indicate subsequent editions. The first edition lacks this on the copyright page. Around 1933, Knopf issued a new statement, saying that "First Edition" or "First American Edition" would be denoted on the copyright page. For more information on first edition identification, consult Zempel and Verkler's First Editions.

·         Remember alternate titles. Several books in the Freddy series were published under one title, then renamed for subsequent editions. A truly complete collection would include first printings of both titles:

▪     To and Again was later published as Freddy Goes to Florida.

▪     More To and Again was reissued as Freddy Goes to the North Pole.

▪     The Story of Freginald was republished as Freddy and Freginald.

▪     The Clockwork Twin was later published as Freddy and the Clockwork Twin.

▪     Wiggins for President was retitled Freddy the Politician.

·         Explore Brooks' other works. Brooks enjoyed an active career as a literary critic and columnist. He also published over 100 short stories for various magazines. These kinds of articles are fascinating additions to a Walter R Brooks collection because they add both depth and dimension. They may also be more difficult to locate and obtain, giving the collector a satisfying "treasure hunt"!

·         When in doubt, consult an expert. Fans of Freddy are lucky to have an active community of fellow enthusiasts--who are also excellent resources. Reach out to others who can share their knowledge with you. And if you have questions about collecting rare books, be sure to talk to a reputable dealer. You can find qualified rare book dealers through professional organizations like the Antiquarian Booksellers Association of America (ABAA).