Original Library Binding | Early-Career Orlando Magic Feature | High Gloss Cover
"New old stock — unread and unhandled. A 32-year-old book in genuinely new condition with no yellowing, no shelf wear, and no signs of age. Stored carefully since original purchase."
"This is the Shaquille O'Neal edition from Kidsbooks Inc.'s Basketball's Rising Stars series — a 22-book young adult sports biography series published in 1993. Written by Eugene Bradley Coco and published by Kidsbooks Inc. of Chicago, Illinois. Complete set collectors take note — this is a New Old Stock copy of one of the most sought-after editions in the series."
Up for sale is an exceptionally rare find: the Hardcover Library Edition of the 1993 Basketball's Rising Stars featuring Shaquille O'Neal. While paperback versions of this title were common, this rugged, glossy hardcover version was never sold at standard retail and was distributed exclusively to libraries.
WHY THIS BOOK IS A COLLECTOR’S ESSENTIAL:
- The Rare Hardcover: Unlike the softcover magazines of the era, this edition features a glossy pictorial library binding (laminated thick cardboard). It is incredibly durable and presents beautifully on a shelf.
- Early "Shaq-Attack" Era: Published in 1993, this book captures Shaq during his legendary debut year with the Orlando Magic, featuring great photos and profiles from the start of his Hall of Fame journey.
- Special Edition Status: This is a "limited release" item that is rarely seen on the open market, making it an upgrade piece for any serious 90s basketball memorabilia collection.
CONDITION REPORT
- Cover: Glossy, thick-cardboard "Library Binding." Colors are vibrant and the laminate is crisp with minimal shelf wear.
- Interior: [Note: Check your copy and insert: e.g., "Clean pages, no library stamps or writing, appears barely handled."].
- Spine: Tight and secure; this was built to survive school libraries, so it remains much sturdier than a typical book.
TECHNICAL DETAILS
- Subject: Shaquille O'Neal (Orlando Magic)
- Series: Basketball's Rising Stars
- Format: Hardcover (Special Issue Library Edition)
- Year: 1993
- Publisher: Kidsbook Inc. (Plus)