The Nursery Rhymes Of England - Collected Chiefly From Oral Tradition
By J.O. Halliwell
Published by John Russell Smith: London c1853 (preface date)
The Sixth Edition - Illustrated
"
This engaging late-Victorian volume brings together a spirited collection of adventure tales and instructive writings designed for young readers, curated under the editorial guidance of renowned boys' author G.A. Henty. The title story, The Adventures of Two Brave Boys, follows youthful protagonists through trials of courage, loyalty, and resourcefulness—hallmarks of the era's moral storytelling. Complementing this is R.M. Freeman's The Heir of Langridge Towers, a tale steeped in mystery, inheritance, and personal honour. The companion narrative, King Lion, introduces exotic danger and imaginative encounters, enriched with lively scenes that mirror the Victorian fascination with distant lands and heroic conduct.
Beyond its fiction, the book includes zoological sketches and assorted educational articles, blending entertainment with the instructive spirit emblematic of the Beeton's Boys Own Books series. Together these elements offer a rich snapshot of late-19th-century juvenile literature, where adventure, character-building, and informal learning were seamlessly combined. This edition will appeal to collectors of Victorian boys' stories, admirers of G.A. Henty's editorial influence, and those interested in period juvenile publishing."
Heavy wear and fading to covers with some damage to outer spine as shown. Pages clean with little to no foxing. No inscriptions. Binding very good with no loose pages. All edges gilt. A nice copy of an early nursery rhymes edition. Please study photos to further understand condition.