Bob Merz — The Mockingbird Book

New York, Harper and Row, 1962 . First edition. Hardback. A signed first edition of this very scarce children's picture book, illustrated throughout by Murray Tinkleman. A signed presentation copy of this very scarce illustrated children's book, in the publisher's original dust wrapper, price clipped.Inscribed to the front free endpaper 'For neice [sic] from Uncles Romulus and Remus, Xmas 1962, The Eyrie, Well Walk&apos. A prior owner has identified the 'Remus' of this inscription as the author, Bob Merz.The first children's book from freelance journalist Bob Merz, illustrated throughout in yellow and black ink by Murray Tinkleman, an American science-fiction and fantasy illustrator. A charming and very scarce work, following the adventures of a mockingbird who is approached by hunters in the woods. In the publisher's original pictorial paper covered boards, with clipped dust wrapper. Small bump to spine tail, otherwise externally, fine. Inscription to front free endpaper. Discolouration and rubbing to dust wrapper back strip, with small losses to back strip head and tail. Closed tears to head of rear wrap. Internally, firmly bound. Pages clean and bright. Near Fine . Ill.: Murray Tinkleman. Near Fine/Very Good Indeed.