First edition of
Sweet Cicely; or, Josiah Allen as a Politician by Marietta Holley, published by Funk & Wagnalls in 1886 (copyright 1885). Decorative cloth binding with gilt and black stamping. This mid-career novel blends Holley’s signature humor with sharp political and social satire. A clean example of a 19th-century decorative binding, ideal for collectors of early women’s literature, satire, or Americana.
Marietta Holley (1836–1926) was one of the most popular American humorists of her time, often compared to Mark Twain for her satirical wit. Writing under the persona “Josiah Allen’s Wife,” she produced more than twenty bestselling novels that wove early feminist themes into domestic humor — advocating women’s suffrage, critiquing gender double standards, and using comedy to deliver serious social commentary. Her work gave voice to progressive ideas in an era when women’s perspectives were often sidelined.
Inscription: There is an inscription in cursive dated 1919. And then on the back of that page there is a later inscription. Books are great -- they outlive us.
Condition:
Binding is tight and text block is secure. Both front and rear hinges are split along the endpapers, exposing the mull, but boards remain firmly attached. Mild edge and corner wear consistent with age; Mild scattered foxing and spotting on boards, not affecting legibility of decoration. Please see photographs as they are part of the listing.