101 Dalmations

6C Dodie Smith. Illustrated by Janet and Anne Grahame-Johnstone. London: Heinemann, 1956. First Edition with Bespoke Chelsea Binding.

Notes

The Hundred and One Dalmatians is a children’s novel written by Dodie Smith and first published in 1956 in the United Kingdom by Heinemann. The story follows Pongo and Missis, two Dalmatians who embark on a daring rescue mission after their 15 puppies are kidnapped by the villainous Cruella de Vil, who wants to make a fur coat out of their spotted hides. Along the way, the two dogs discover that Cruella has stolen many more puppies—bringing the total to 99—and they courageously lead them all back home, ultimately resulting in a family of 101 Dalmatians.

The inspiration for the book came partly from Smith’s own experience: she and her husband owned a group of Dalmatians, and one friend once jokingly remarked that their dogs would make a lovely fur coat—planting the seed for Cruella’s sinister plot. Smith was already a successful playwright and novelist (best known for I Capture the Castle), but this story marked her first venture into children’s literature. The first edition featured illustrations by Janet and Anne Grahame-Johnstone, whose whimsical art contributed to the book’s enduring charm. The novel's success led to several adaptations, most notably the 1961 Disney animated film, which significantly boosted the story’s global popularity.

The Chelsea Bindery is a renowned fine bookbinding workshop based in London, established in 2000 by Peter Harrington to bring high‑quality book repair, conservation, and bespoke binding in‑house. It is one of the few binderies still practising the traditional craft of hand‑made leather bookbinding, using centuries‑old techniques such as sewing, gilding, raised bands, onlays, and tooling to create exquisite bindings and protective solander boxes for collectors and special editions. Craftsmen at the Chelsea Bindery often use vintage equipment and draw on training from historic binderies like Zaehnsdorf, producing about 150 finely bound works each year that are valued as both beautiful artworks and protective encasements for important literary works.

Description 

Black and white “Dalmatian” leather binding by the Chelsea Bindery with gilt lettering to the spine. All edges gilt. Illustrations throughout. Very fine condition and including black clamshell case with velvet lining and gilt lettering on the spine.