Once on a Time

6C A. A. Milne. Decorations by Charles Robinson. London: Hodder and Stoughton, 1917. 

Notes

Once on a Time is a whimsical fairy-tale novel by A. A. Milne, written several years before his celebrated Winnie-the-Pooh stories. Set in the imaginary kingdoms of Euralia and Barodia, the story follows a comical conflict between rival monarchs, a resourceful princess, and the scheming Countess Belvane, whose ambitions complicate an already chaotic royal court. Blending fantasy, romance, political satire, and Milne's characteristic humor, the novel playfully challenges traditional fairy-tale conventions through its imperfect heroes, unconventional villains, and witty observations of human nature. Written in 1915 during the First World War, partly to entertain his wife, the book was particularly dear to Milne, who later expressed his belief that it was among his finest works. Originally illustrated by H. M. Brock, the novel was subsequently published with charming illustrations by Charles Robinson, adding a distinctive artistic dimension to this lesser-known treasure of early twentieth-century fantasy literature.

Alan Alexander Milne was an English novelist, playwright, poet, and humorist best remembered for creating the beloved world of Winnie-the-Pooh. Born in London and educated at Cambridge University, Milne began his literary career as a contributor to the British humor magazine Punch, eventually becoming an assistant editor. Before achieving international fame as a children's author, he enjoyed considerable success writing plays, novels, and humorous essays, demonstrating a remarkable talent for wit, satire, and imaginative storytelling. Milne remained proud of his writing for adults, particularly Once on a Time, which showcases his playful imagination and sophisticated humor. His enduring legacy rests upon his extraordinary ability to capture the innocence, absurdity, and emotional richness of childhood, securing his place among the most beloved authors of twentieth-century English literature.

Charles Robinson was a celebrated English book illustrator whose enchanting artwork helped define the golden age of British children's book illustration during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Born into a family of artists, Robinson developed a distinctive style characterized by delicate linework, elaborate decorative borders, imaginative compositions, and graceful figures inspired by the Art Nouveau movement and the traditions of Victorian fairy-tale illustration. His illustrations appeared in numerous beloved literary works, including Robert Louis Stevenson's A Child's Garden of Verses, Frances Hodgson Burnett's The Secret Garden, and A. A. Milne's Once on a Time. Robinson's ability to combine whimsical fantasy with intricate ornamental detail made him particularly well suited to Milne's playful fairy-tale world.

Description

Red canvas binding with gilt and black image to the upper board and spine with gilt lettering as well. Sun fading to the spine. Illustrated. Illustrated endpapers. Fine condition.