Miss Minerva’s Problem

A bright, well-preserved first edition of Miss Minerva’s Problem, one of Emma Speed Sampson’s popular juvenile novels, illustrated throughout by Clifford P. Benton and published by Reilly & Lee in 1936. Bound in the publisher’s original orange cloth, this copy retains strong color with crisp black stamped illustration and lettering to both the front cover and spine. The binding is tight and square, with only light rubbing at the extremities consistent with careful shelf storage. The spine remains fully legible with no structural issues. The interior is notably clean. Pages show only light, even age toning typical of Reilly & Lee productions of the period, with no writing, no bookplates, no ownership marks, and no tears or loose pages. All illustrated plates and in-text drawings by Clifford P. Benton are present and sharp, enhancing the book’s visual and collectible appeal. A particularly attractive example of a 1930s Reilly & Lee children’s title, and a strong candidate for collectors of vintage juvenile fiction, illustrated books, or early 20th-century American publishing. 📐 Condition Very Good+ Original orange cloth, tight and square Minor edge and corner wear only Spine lettering clear and intact Interior clean and unmarked Light, even age toning All illustrations present No dust jacket (as issued or not present) 📚 Notes on Collectability Emma Speed Sampson’s Miss Minerva titles are increasingly sought, particularly in first editions with bright cloth and clean interiors. Clifford P. Benton’s illustrations add further desirability. This copy stands out for its color retention, structural soundness, and lack of interior defects.…