Earth's Enigmas

Sir Charles G.D. Roberts (1860-1943), known as the "Father of Canadian Poetry," also wrote prose, and is particularly well-known for his animal stories. His experiences growing up in New Brunswick were the primary source of inspiration for the short stores found in Earth's Enigma (1896), which recount various aspects of the natural world and the different ways in which humanity engages with them.

This edition is in Fair condition. There is some significant discolouration to the boards and spine, and the lettering on the spine is very faded. The front and back hinges are cracked, however the pages are all present and the binding appears to be secure. The tops of the pages are gilded and this gilding is in excellent condition. There are signatures from a previous owner both on the title page, as well as the front flyleaf, which in and of themselves are historically interesting, reflecting the travels of the original owner from Windsor, Nova Scotia in 1898 to Paris, France in 1900. There are also occasional marginal notes as well as sums on the back flyleaf, both written in pencil. Overall, a readable and fascinating edition of the work of a notable though perhaps not well known Canadian author reflecting the Canadian natural world in the late nineteenth century.