Chatterbox, 1927 (Antique Book, HB)

Chatterbox: Original 1927 Annual Edition

This 1927 hardback annual edition of Chatterbox magazine offers a genuine piece of children’s literature. J. Erskine Clarke edited this volume, and L.C. Page and Co. published it. The book, which measures 10L x 7.5W x 1″D, contains 316 pages and features a beautiful color pictorial cover with stylized fonts of the time. This is an original bound annual, not an imitation. British clergyman John Erskine Clark founded Chatterbox in December 1866, and it quickly became very popular, captivating children in both Britain and America. We received this pre-owned book as a donation.

A Pioneering Children’s Magazine

The original Chatterbox magazine appeared weekly, costing a halfpenny. Today, bound annuals of the magazine exist, with the first annual coming out in 1867. This publication specifically aimed at “older” children, those with a good reading ability. Chatterbox offered diverse content, including short articles, short fiction, and serialized tales that ran for most of a given year. The magazine targeted both boys and girls, presenting heroic boys’ adventure tales alongside stories about “the importance of being good little girls.”

Renowned for Illustrations

Chatterbox was widely known for its wonderful illustrations. Animal artist Harrison Weir often contributed to its pages, illustrating various animal anecdotes and fables. Typically, every third page featured a full-page engraving, making Chatterbox a significant art source. It provides great insight into the Victorian era. This edition is profusely illustrated, including many black and white engravings and seven vibrant color plates.

A Glimpse into the Past

This book offers more than just stories; it provides a direct look at children’s entertainment from 1927. The personal inscription adds a unique touch, as it reads: “A Merry Xmas | To Betty | from | Uncle Jack & Aunt Mary.” This detail connects you to its original owners, making the book a truly personal relic.

Condition of This Vintage Book

This Chatterbox annual is in good condition for its age, considering it’s 98 years old. It features a healthy spine. However, the lower-right corner has one-to-two inch water stains, which appear on all pages. There is also light tanning, and the cover shows wear. Corners and edges are worn, and some pages have dog-ears. Despite these minor imperfections, it remains a charming and readable historical piece.

Support a Worthy Cause

By purchasing this item, you’re supporting Father Joe’s Villages’ mission to prevent and end homelessness in San Diego.

Author: Multiple, edited by J. Erskine Clarke
Publisher: L.C. Page and Co.
Year: 1927
Condition: Pre-owned, good for a 98-year-old book, healthy spine, lower-right corner has 1–2″ water stains on all pages, light tanning, cover wear, worn corners and edges, some dog-ears
Compare To: $20.54 (eBay, average sale price over three years, plus sales tax, including shipping)