Book descriptions

We try to describe all books as fully and as accurately as possible and we use the standard grading terms for Modern First Editions.

The book will be described first, followed by the dustwrapper where applicable.

Fine: This is our highest grading. The book will be, to all intents and purposes, as it was when published. It will be unread and have no major faults. If there are any faults they will be very minor and will be noted.

Very Good: The book will show some signs of use, i.e. that it has been read. The book may have a lean to the spine, the pages may be dusty or browned, and there may be some light bumping to the book boards. The dustwrapper may show some creasing, wrinkling or light wear but nonetheless will be complete.

Good: Both book and dustwrapper will show more significant signs of usage. There may be a more pronounced lean to the spine, the book may be more heavily bumped and may be marked whilst the text block may show increased signs of use and may be grubby or slightly loose. The dustwrapper may be more heavily creased and chipped and may have larger portions missing.

It is possible that when describing a book, the grading may fall between two of the categories mentioned above. In this case a grading of Near Fine, for example, may be employed.

We appreciate that matters relating to condition are subjective, but we do set very high standards for our books, and we err on the side of caution. Of course, should we make a mistake, or if you feel that our descriptions do not match the books, then please do let us know and we can discuss the return of the book.

Other terms used in the book descriptions:

Signed: means signed by the author. If the author has written anything else such as the date, a greeting, or drawn a doodle etc. etc. this will also be noted.

Inscribed: means that the author has dedicated the book to a specific person as well as signing it.

Signed on a Bookplate: means that the author has pre-signed a bookplate, usually for the publisher, who has then loosely laid it into the book or permanently affixed it to one of the pages.

Previous owner’s inscription: means that a previous owner of the book has written their name, etc. etc. somewhere in the book.

First edition and first impression/printing: It is understood that all books advertised will be UK first editions and the first impression or printing of that title unless specifically stated otherwise.

Price-clipping and remainder marks will be noted.

If you have any queries relating to any of the books advertised, please do not hesitate to get in touch.