Item 5B
Peter Rabbit
1901
First Edition
Privately Printed
Presentation Copy
After her manuscript of Peter Rabbit had been rejected by several publishers, Beatrix Potter had this version printed herself, in an edition of 250 copies. She gave most of them away, including this copy inscribed to a cousin for Christmas. Since this first appearance, this story of the mischievous and disobedient young Peter Rabbit and Mr. McGregor has been translated into 36 languages, with 45 million copies sold. It is one of the best-selling books in history.
What will you discover next?
Charles Dickens A Tale of Two Cities
An author presenting their book as a gift?
Go To Item 6C
Emily Brontë Wuthering Heights
Another novel by an important female writer?
Go To Item 7C
Return to Rose Collection
Return to the Rose Collection
Visit the Folger to see this object on exhibit
Imprints in Time
Imprints in Time
This special exhibition at the Folger features rare books from the collection of Stuart and Mimi Rose that present literary, cultural, and historical high points.
Through Sun, Jan 5, 2025