John Graves : Self - Portrait With Birds. Some Semi-Ornithological Recollections

JOHN GRAVES

Publication: Chama Press, 1991, Dallas

First edition. 4to. Signed on the half title page by the author. Edition limited to 300 copies bound in a quarter leather binding and decorated paper over boards with titles stamped in gilt on the spine. Additionally there are 30 special copies bound in full leather and have been signed by the author, artist, printer and binder. Two-tone quarter leather and decorated paper over boards, gray front and rear endpapers, [6], 36 pp., illustrated. Wood engravings by John De Pol. Laid-in to this copy is the original publication announcement.

Don’t be misled by the title, this book isn’t so much about bird watching as it is about interesting characters who happen to have some connection with birds. The author recounts his early experiences bird hunting with two uncles, ornithological expeditions with “Horrible Doctor” (a prominent Houston physician), and finally on his “hard scrabble” farm in Texas. A wonderful volume, as it was the winner of the third annual Carl Hertzog Award for Excellence in Book Design. If you enjoy John Graves or just good writing in a beautiful format, this book should be in your library.

As new, housed in the original and "as new" slipcase