Children’s books from the late nineteenth century have the best illustrations. Here’s why:
They are charming.
From Round the Hearth [and other verses], 1889.
They are nonsensical.
From Lilliput Lyrics. Illustrated by Chas. Robinson, 1899.
There are many amazing, often obscure works of literature available as free e-books: small slices of earthly and intellectual paradise waiting to be uncovered. Finding dusty old gems can take a bit of work and patience, but this exercise is my kind of fun. I thought it would be nice to share my discoveries with you on a regular basis. First up:
Reminiscences of Tolstoy, by His Son by Graf Ilia Lvovich Tolstoi [Project Gutenberg]
Leo’s son Ilia as an older man.
A Small Press Life: Books. Art. Writing. Life. Tea. 