Beau Pogo by Walt Kelly (1960 First Thus Comic Paperback)

First paperback collection of Pogo comic strips originally published in newspapers 1958, 1959 & 1960. The copy for sale is the first edition of this paperback, the 19th Pogo book published by Simon & Schuster. This is known because of the proclamation of First Printing on reverse of title page along with the printed increased $1.25 MSR on the front cover.

Front cover is like a valentine with a big red heart and Pogo formally dressed in a tux with tails, presenting a bouquet of roses. As with any memorable valentine, the presenter just can't leave the printed title alone. Subtitles added: Or the Impeccable Possum, Or the Swanee Swami at Bay, Or the Dandy Little Marsupial, finally Or Okeydoke of the Okeefenoke. Signed: from Guess Who?

The book consists of a cartoon spoof of the Simon & Schuster colophon on front-facing end-page, a list of the 18 books published before this one, title page dated 1960, table of contents, a page and a half “Memo to Dear Children,” and 41 topical B&W comic strip chapters. 191pp.

Walter Crawford Kelly, Jr. (1913-1973) was named Cartoonist of the Year by the National Cartoonists Society in 1952. Pogo remains one of the world's most popular comic strips. A collection of comic strips by the immortal Walt Kelly featuring characters that lived in the Okefenokee Swamp in Georgia. Often a vehicle for political commentary, Kelly made famous the revised Commodore Perry quote "We have met the enemy, and he is us."

Paperback cover has red designs on white background with B&W cartoons front and back, black lettering plus red shadowboxes on spine. Cover is whole with minor wear at edges. On the rear cover is an advertisement for a hardcover "biography" of Pogo. Interior is fine (as new) given it is over 60 years old; tight, clean and unmarked. Spine is sunburnt. Pages are white, but beginning to show discoloring from outside toward in.

• Size: 8vo – over 7¾ - 9¾” tall, 191pp.
• Condition: Good Paperback – 1st Edition of 19th POGO book. Always privately owned. No Ownership markings.

Copyright 1958, 1959 & 1960. First edition points noted above. Printed in U.S.A. No ISBN nor LCCN. MSR = US $1.25.

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