Synopsis
The Five Jars is the only novel written by James, who is best known for his ghost stories. It is a peculiarly surreal fantasy apparently written for children. While he is out walking, the narrator is drawn to a remote pool, and finds a small box that has been hidden since Roman times. He gradually learns how to use its contents, fighting off a series of attempts to steal it, and becomes aware of a strange world hidden from our own. (Summary by Peter Yearsley)
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THE FIVE JARS
Seller: Nicholas J. Certo, Newburgh, NY, U.S.A.
Seller rating 5 out of 5 stars
Hardcover. Condition: Fine. Dust Jacket Condition: Fine. Includes a new introduction by Rosemary Pardoe. Limited edition of 300 numbered copies this being copy #178. Fine in a Fine dust wrapper. Seller Inventory # 26-1 cb ash tree james
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Five Jars
Seller: Books From California, Simi Valley, CA, U.S.A.
Seller rating 4 out of 5 stars
hardcover. Condition: Fine. Dust Jacket Condition: Includes dust jacket. dj in mylar sleeve. copy in fine condition. Seller Inventory # mon0003483678
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The Five Jars [Early Children's Supernatural]
Published by
Ash-Tree Press, Pennyfford, Chester, 1995
ISBN 10: 1899562028
ISBN 13: 9781899562022
Used
Hardcover
First Edition
Seller: Blind-Horse-Books (ABAA), DeLand, FL, U.S.A.
Seller rating 5 out of 5 stars
Hardcover with Dust Jacket. Condition: Fine. Dust Jacket Condition: Fine. First Edition, First Printing. Bright red cloth, gilt spine titles; 8.5 inches tall; 101 [3] pages. Illustrations and dust jacket by Anthony Maitland; Introduction by Rosemary Pardoe. Originally published in 1922 by Edward Arnold, London. Ref: Bleiler: Checklist of Fantastic Literature, p161. Limited edition # 223 of 300. No Flaws or Blemishes but minimal shelf handling; Still Gift Quality. Unread. Originally published in 1922, The Five Jars is a captivating blend of children's adventure and supernatural mystery, marking a rare departure from M.R. James's more famous adult ghost stories. The enchanting tale follows young Roland, who discovers five magical jars hidden in his aunt's attic. Each jar contains a unique adventure, transporting him to extraordinary realms filled with fantastical creatures and perilous challenges. James weaves an intricate narrative where childhood innocence collides with the unknown, inviting readers into a world of imagination Through vivid prose, he captures the essence of curiosity and the allure of secret worlds hidden just beyond ordinary perception. The book not only delights with its imaginative landscapes but also subtly explores themes of courage, friendship, and the transformative power of discovery. The Five Jars is an important text in the evolution of fantasy and children's literature, showcasing the potential for eerie and imaginative storytelling beyond typical adventure genres. It represents James's broader contribution to supernatural fiction, influencing later generations of writers who blended the strange and otherworldly into children's narratives. James's legacy continues to influence writers of supernatural fiction and horror, with his work remaining a touchstone for modern ghost stories. His stories' blend of erudition, horror, and psychological depth has earned him a lasting place in the history of English literature. [Adapted from Reviews] Subjects: Children's Adventure, Mystery, Fantasy, Supernatural, Private Press. Seller Inventory # 20660
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FIVE JARS
Seller: Atlanta Vintage Books, Atlanta, GA, U.S.A.
Seller rating 5 out of 5 stars
Hardcover. Condition: Near Fine. Dust Jacket Condition: Near Fine. Pages are clean, no markings from previous owners. Boards are clean and square. Binding is tight. Text block is clean. Back of dust jacket has two very minor soiled points, as shown in our photos. Jacket is clean and bright otherwise. Seller Inventory # 65508
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THE FIVE JARS
Published by
Ash-Tree Press, Ashcroft, BC, 1995
ISBN 10: 1899562028
ISBN 13: 9781899562022
Used
Hardcover
First Edition
Seller: Robert Gavora, Fine & Rare Books, ABAA, Talent, OR, U.S.A.
Seller rating 5 out of 5 stars
Hardcover. Condition: Fine. Dust Jacket Condition: Fine. First edition. First Ash-Tree edition, first printing. Number 218 of 300 numbered copies. Introduction by Rosemary Pardoe. Dust jacket illustration by Antony Maitland. Originally published in 1922 by Edward Arnold, London. A Bleiler title, Checklist of Fantastic Literature, pg 161. "Light, fanciful, mildly ironic, and very pleasurable reading." Quoted from Bleiler; The Guide to Supernatural Fiction, 914. Fine in fine and bright dust jacket. An as new copy. Book. Seller Inventory # 051412