Author: Johanna Spyri. Translated by Helen B. Dole.
Title: Heidi.
Publisher: Boston, Ginn and Company, circa 1900 (copyright 1899). Printed at The Athenæum Press.
Language: Text in English.
Size: 8 x 6 inches.
Pages: vii, 363 pages.
Binding: Near fine, very attractive, and scarce binding variant of the Ginn edition in an original publisher’s dark green cloth binding, with a mounted colour pictorial on the front cover and gilt lettering to the spine (hinges fine, binding firm) under a protective, removable mylar cover. Top edge gilt. Overall, a very pleasing and uncommon example.
Content: Very good condition. Pages generally clean with light, scattered foxing as seen, more noticeable to the preliminaries. A solid and well-preserved copy.
Illustrations: Complete with 6 full-page colour illustrations, all present and in very good condition.

Estimate: (USD 200 – 250)

The book: This charming early American edition of Heidi presents Johanna Spyri’s beloved tale in a particularly appealing and somewhat scarce binding variant, distinguished by its mounted pictorial panel depicting Heidi in her alpine setting. Issued around 1900 by Ginn and Company and printed at The Athenæum Press, this edition reflects the transitional period of illustrated juvenile publishing, combining sturdy cloth bindings with increasingly vivid color illustration.

The story of Heidi—her life in the Swiss Alps with her grandfather, her friendship with Peter, and her transformative relationship with Clara—remains one of the most enduring works of children’s literature. Celebrated for its evocation of nature, innocence, and emotional resilience, Heidi continues to resonate across generations.

The present edition, enhanced by six delicate color plates, captures the pastoral beauty and emotional warmth of the narrative. The binding, with its rich tones and pictorial centerpiece, adds significant visual appeal and collectibility, especially in such well-preserved condition.

The author: Johanna Spyri (1827–1901) was a Swiss author best known for Heidi, first published in 1880. Drawing inspiration from the landscapes and culture of her native Switzerland, Spyri created stories that celebrate childhood, simplicity, and the restorative power of nature. Heidi quickly achieved international success and remains her most famous and enduring work.