RED RIDING HOOD

(Boston): (L. Prang & Co.), (1863). First Edition. Stiff Wraps. Mild overall wear with a few small chips to edges; covers darkened with one or two creases. Scattered small, mild staining to some leaves. Very Good. Shape book: 6-5/8" x 2-3/8", [16] pages; stiff chromolithographed wrappers (sewn). Charming toy book in the shape of a standing Little Red Riding Hood, the wolf crouched around her ankles. L. Prang & Company issued a series of "Doll" books in 1863 which, along with other juveniles, toy books, and games, were among its first publications. Katherine McLinton in THE CHROMOLITHOGRAPHS OF LOUIS PRANG notes: "The tiny Doll books are some of the most interesting and fascinating items Prang published." In addition to "Red Riding Hood," Prang also issued "Robinson Crusoe," "Goody Two-Shoes" (also written by Lydia Very), "Cinderella," and "King Winter." They sold for 25 cents each or they could be purchased in "'an elegant fancy box,'" three to a box, as a Christmas gift. A few years later, a Prang catalogue declared that 'the style of these books originated with us' and "Red Riding Hood" may well have been the first American shape book.

Lydia Very (1823-1901), sister of Transcendentalist poet Jones Very, both designed and wrote the verse which tells the story. Red Riding Hood's adventure is turned into a morality tale in which the little girl disobeys her mother. After her encounter with her would-be devourer, Red Riding Hood "said the fright had taught her/To mind her mother dear." McClinton, Katharine M., THE CHROMOLITHOGRAPHS OF LOUIS PRANG, pp. 45-46 (RED RIDING HOOD pictured at page 46).