"Cole's Favourite Library"
Out Of The Hurly-Burly
By Max Adeler
Illustrated by Arthur B. Frost
Published by E.W. Cole: Melbourne c1900 (undated - inscription dated 1903)
"Out of the Hurly-Burly by Max Adeler (the pen name of Charles Heber Clark) is a humorous novel first published in 1874, blending satire, farce, and social commentary. Set in mid-19th century America, the book follows a loosely connected cast of eccentric characters in a fictional town, detailing their comical misadventures, misunderstandings, and schemes. Through absurd scenarios—including fake scientific experiments, outlandish inventions, and dubious entrepreneurial ventures—Adeler lampoons contemporary society, poking fun at politics, religion, and social pretensions. The episodic structure gives the novel a lively, almost theatrical pace, reminiscent of Pickwick Papers by Dickens.
Illustrated by the celebrated artist Arthur B. Frost, whose lively drawings complement the chaotic energy of the text, the book gained wide popularity for its visual and verbal wit. Frost's humorous sketches bring to life the exaggerated expressions and slapstick situations that define the novel's tone. A major success in its time, Out of the Hurly-Burly was one of the best-selling American books of the 19th century and remains notable as an early example of American comic fiction, blending satire with a light-hearted look at human folly."
Light wear and fading to covers and spine as shown. Inside hinges split but overs are firm. Binding is in good shape with no obvious loose pages. Pages with subtle age toning but otherwise clean. Small inscription present. A nice copy in very good condition overall. Please study photos to further understand condition.
