This is a 1908 copy of the book, and since there is no mention of a printing number, this is a presumed first edition. It contains 20 stories with 7 illustrations marked "DD," and as I understand, that stood for Decorative Designers, a well-known graphic arts firm of the day.
The stories in this book are so charming and the book is so rare that it was part of a contemporary reprint series. This is an actual copy of the book as it was first published, and it is an uncommon find. This is truly a wonderful addition to an antiquarian book collection and would be a great item in the library of anyone who loves Japan and Japanese legend and lore.
BOOK CONDITION
This book was once the property of the Religious School library of the Temple of Emanu-el. There are library marks on the spine and inside the front cover there are two pages of ownership plate information. The library stamp also appears on about 4 or 5 early pages. The back cover still has the library card pocket.
The front cover shows some rubbing and fraying at the edges and tips. The word "Tales" in the title is largely rubbed off, and the author's last name is partially rubbed off. There is a small darkened spot on the back cover. In addition to the library markings, it appears that a careful librarian may have reinforced the inside covers with some binding tape, but I can't be sure of that -- it might have been original. There is some age-related tanning and occasional foxing at the top and edges of pages, but it is minimal for a 102-year-old book. The binding is very solid and all the pages are attached.
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