Friendly Instructor 1821 New Haven Sidney's illustrated children's chap book

(Old Books, 19th Century Books, Americana, Children's Books, Illustrated Books, Chap Books, Woodcut Illustrations).

The Friendly Instructor, or, Companion for Young Masters and Misses.
Published 1821, New Haven by John Babcock & Sons.
31 pages, possibly lacking a frontis. Text in English. Three wood engraved images.

Publisher's pictorial paper wrappers, spine neatly hand sewn using thread (done by an early owner).

Scarce pre 1830 juvenile American chap book. An early owner has carefully used thread to stitch the spine in a manner frequently seen on small chap books of this vintage. This early hand repair adds a particular charm to the item.

Book is over 150 years old and shows some signs of handling and time. Item is not new or in "new" condition.

Binding well soiled and age worn, typical signs of handling from young hands, remains overall attractive as an object.

Paper is toned, various typical small spots, stains, etc., top of title page cut away to remove the early owners signature name, still sound and agreeable given the small size, fragile nature, date and intended audience.

Still attractive on the shelf, it displays a pleasing and unique age patina, any age flaws easy to overlook or forgive. 

Please review photos for more detail showing how this rare little item survives. The asking price reflects the condition based on our examination and 35+ years full time exposure to antiquarian books and ephemera of all types. Flaws seen and described have been taken into account.

Book Measures c. 4 1/4" H x 2 1/2" W.

[B4308].

Carstens, The Babcocks: Printers, Publishers, Booksellers, 1975, Columbia Univ.