Fairies and Chimneys by Rose Fyleman – 1918 First Edition | Rare Antiquarian Poetry Book
 
Publication Details:
Title: Fairies and Chimneys
Author: Rose Fyleman
Publisher: Methuen & Co., Ltd., 36 Essex Street, London
Date: 1918 (First Edition)
Printer: Morrison and Gibb Ltd., Edinburgh
 
Binding and Physical Features:
A rare and charming antiquarian children's poetry volume, this 1918 first edition is bound in original blue cloth boards with pale lettering and decorations to the front cover and spine. The binding remains robust and presents well with minimal wear for its age.
Cover condition: Some bumping to corners, light marks and scratches, minor discolouration, and small dents, mainly to edges and corners.
Dimensions: 17.8 × 11 × 1 cm
Weight: Approx. 108g
 
Interior Condition:
The book contains all 45 pages, printed on thick paper stock, with the majority uncreased and clean. Endpapers are darkened, and interior pages show expected age toning with occasional light foxing or small marks.
Notable Features:
Pages are roughly cut at the edges—typical of early 20th-century publications—adding to its historical charm.
A group of uncut pages remains at the rear, attaching page 45 to the final endpaper, likely from original production.
A cracked gutter is visible between a few pages, but no loose leaves are present.
No inscriptions, annotations, or missing pages.
No rips or tears observed.
 
Literary Significance:
Rose Fyleman (1877-1957) was a beloved English poet known for her imaginative and whimsical verse for children. Fairies and Chimneys was her debut collection and quickly established her reputation. This first edition includes her most famous works, including "A Fairy Went A-Marketing," a delightful poem celebrating the fantastical adventures of a market-going fairy.
 
Rarity:
First editions of Fairies and Chimneys are increasingly difficult to find, especially in such well-preserved condition. Its scarcity and historical importance make this an excellent collector’s item.