Millions of Cats

New York: Coward-McCann, 1928. First Edition. Copy number 228 of an edition limited to 250 numbered copies signed by the author / artist Wanda Gag. With an original wood engraving by Wanda Gag, not included in the book, which is also signed and dated by her in the year of publication, “’28’”. The image depicts a small cat curled up on the cushion of a rocking chair in a sitting room with a small round table and chair and two flower vases atop a draped pedestal nearby. The engraving itself measures 5 7/8” x 4 9/16” and is in a small paper frame (7 3/4” x 6 1/2”) with tissue guard. The book is in oblong format, 9 7/8” x 6 3/4”, with decorative endpapers, and is enclosed in the original publisher’s slipcase to which is affixed its special limited edition label. Additionally, the book and slipcase are housed in a custom dark brown cloth clamshell box with gilt-stamped leather at the spine. Everything is in fine bright condition and is a beautiful presentation of a classic children’s tale of love and connection from Wanda Gag (1893–1946), award-winning American artist, author, translator, and illustrator. Millions of Cats won a Newbery Honor Award and the Lewis Carroll Shelf Award and is the oldest American picture book still in print. Her other acclaimed works include The ABC Bunny which received a Newbery Honor Award, and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and Nothing at All, which each won a Caldecott Honor Award.