Herakles, Son of Zeus: The Golden Apples of the Hesperides
Florida: Pleiades Press, 1997. First edition. Hardcover. 1/1000 copies, stated first edition, 1997, hardcover, quarto, 22pp., illustrated in color and b&w, fold out illustration. Book fine, binding tight, text clean bright and unmarked. DJ VG+ with a touch of sun to top of spine and back panel, light rubbing and edge wear. "Greece and the Greek myths have been a consuming interest since childhood. In the 50s Barbara produced a series of etchings on the Odyssey; they are now in major museums. In 1960 Elizabeth Riley, children's book editor for T.Y. Crowell, advanced $500 to research, write and illustrate the life of Herakles. Two years later, Crowell dropped the project, but Miss Riley offered to do the "Golden Apples" chapter as a Christmas book. Barbara declined; the contract had expired. However, Barbara sold 5 sets of etchings of Herakles' Labors in portfolio. The text languished in limbo. Then, in 1979 Barbara and daughter, Laurie, went to Greece. Destination, Mycenae. When Barbara looked over the ancient stone walls she cried with relief. She had realized her dream at last. You hold in your hands the first publication, the Eleventh Labor of Herakles." Fine / Very good+. Item #C00004881
ISBN: 0961615230
Price: $75.00