1960 The King's wish and Other Stories, Benjamin Elkin. Measures about 9" by 6.5". 63 pages. Good condition. Shows a little age and use. Appears to have staining on the bottom of a at least one page.
This 1960 edition of "The King’s Wish and Other Stories" by Benjamin Elkin is a standout example of early Space Age era children’s publishing. Part of the iconic "Beginner Books" series co-founded by Dr. Seuss, this volume features the distinctive storytelling and educational philosophy that revolutionized literacy in the mid-20th century. The illustrations by Leonard Shortall are vibrant and expressive, capturing a sense of royal whimsy through a classic Mid-Century Modern lens. The characters are rendered with a warmth and humor that feels sophisticated yet accessible, making it a quintessential piece of American book history.
While this copy shows the honest character of a well-loved volume—including a minor stain on the lower margin of a page—it retains its structural integrity and visual charm. The deep navy cover and traditional regal color palette of gold, orange, and emerald green make it a perfect candidate for a Dark Academia styled shelf or a collection of vintage primary readers. It offers three distinct stories that demonstrate the clever, morality-based themes common in early sixties literature. For collectors of the "I Can Read It All By Myself" series, this 63-page hardcover represents a significant moment in the evolution of the modern picture book and serves as a timeless decorative accent.
This item is vintage, over 65 years old.
