The 16th edition of When We Were Very Young by A.A. Milne, published in 1927, is an important and charming edition of Milne’s first poetry collection for children. This book, originally published in 1924, introduced readers to the world of Christopher Robin and his friends, and marked the beginning of Milne’s beloved works for children, which would later include Winnie-the-Pooh and Now We Are Six.

When We Were Very Young (16th Edition, 1927)

• Author: A.A. Milne

• Publisher: The 16th edition was published by Methuen & Co., the same publisher that released the first edition.

• Edition: This is the 16th edition of When We Were Very Young, published in 1927—just a few years after the original 1924 release. Being the 16th edition, it is still early in the book’s publication history, and it’s an important piece for collectors of Milne’s work, reflecting its growing popularity.

• Binding: The book is typically hardcover, bound with a cloth or fabric cover. Early editions of Milne’s books often have a simple yet elegant design, with the title prominently displayed, often in gold lettering or a classic font. Some editions may include an illustration on the cover, typically designed by E.H. Shepard, who also provided illustrations for the book.

• Illustrations: The 16th edition includes the original illustrations by E.H. Shepard, whose delicate, whimsical drawings brought Milne’s poems to life. Shepard’s illustrations of Christopher Robin, Pooh, and other beloved characters from the Hundred Acre Wood are featured throughout the book, adding to the charm of the poetry.

• Poetry: When We Were Very Young is a collection of Milne’s poems, many of which center around the adventures of Christopher Robin, a young boy who is a companion to the animals in the Hundred Acre Wood. The poems in this collection explore themes of childhood, imagination, and simple pleasures. Famous poems include “Teddy Bear,” “The King’s Breakfast,” and “Vespers.”

• Text and Typography: The text of the book is presented with clear, legible typography. Milne’s poetry is characterized by its playful use of rhyme and rhythm, making it accessible and enjoyable for both children and adults. The poems are brief, often with a sense of innocence and humor that resonate deeply with young readers.

Collector’s Appeal:

• Rarity: The 16th edition of When We Were Very Young is considered a rare find for collectors of A.A. Milne’s works. As it was published in the same year as Winnie-the-Pooh’s release, it offers a glimpse into the early success and popularity of Milne’s children’s books.

• Condition: As this is a vintage edition, the value and appeal of the book depend on its condition. A copy in excellent or near-mint condition, especially with the original binding and illustrations, would be highly prized by collectors. Any wear, such as fading on the cover, foxing on the pages, or a torn dust jacket, can affect its value, but well-preserved copies are highly sought after.

• Dust Jacket: If the book includes a dust jacket, that would significantly increase its value. Early 20th-century dust jackets are often delicate and rare, so a copy with a well-preserved dust jacket is a notable find.

Summary:

The 16th edition of When We Were Very Young is a delightful and collectible version of A.A. Milne’s first poetry collection, published by Methuen & Co. in 1927. With its beautiful illustrations by E.H. Shepard, simple yet timeless poems, and early publishing history, this edition holds a special place in the hearts of Milne fans and collectors of classic children’s literature. It captures the charm of Milne’s writing at the height of his early success, before the world was introduced to Winnie-the-Pooh and the other classics that followed.