Hard Times for These Times (Number 1813 of a Limited Edition of 1950 copies)

Barre, Massachusetts: Imprint Society. Very Good+. 1972. Hardcover. 0876360312 . The tenth novel by Charles Dickens, "Hard Times" is his shortest major work and is concerned with mid-19th century social problems in England's industrial midlands areas. It was first published in installments in 1854. While initially not well-received by the general public, the novel became more highly regarded once influential critic F. R. Leavis praised it as one of Dickens's best works. This deluxe modern reprint edition in slipcase features illustrations (and is signed on limitation page by) Richard Scollins. Number 1813 of a limited edition of 1950 copies. Includes an introduction by Monica Dickens. --- In black leather-backed paper-covered boards with Scollins illustrations on front and back. Gilt-stamped titling on spine, purple topstain and text presented on quality laid papers. Slipcase covered in purple papers with the same illustrations as on boards; titling printed on back & ends. --- Previous owner's bookplate affixed to front paste-down and with sight chafing to leather spine at ends, else a tightly-bound, clean, unmarked copy lacking additional apparent damages. Slipcase with small tears and light rubbing, is otherwise structurally sound and lacks additional damages. (NOTE: Due to the weight of this item, extra shipping charges may be requested for shipments beyond the U.S.); Quarto - 11 to 13 in. tall; xviii, 218, [2] pages; Signed by Illustrator .