See my previous Golden Guide post to see a few other cover and title variations.
The Golden Guides, originally Golden Nature Guides, were a series of 160-page, pocket-sized books created by Western Publishing and published under their “Golden Press” line (primarily a children’s book imprint) starting in 1949.
These books were written by experts in their field and illustrated in a simple straightforward style. Intended for primary and secondary school level readers, the first books were field guides illustrated by James Gordon Irving.
Packed with information, maps, charts and beautiful photographs.
Golden Guides are collectible and make great gifts for nature lovers.
Cemented in the tiki hall of fame with his signature drinks and successful restaurant chain, Trader Vic (Victor Bergeron) allegedly invented Tiki Classic Cocktail, Mai Tai .
With over 1500 Classic cocktail recipes this Bartenders Guide includes advice on how to be a great host and appropriate tiki centric glassware.
This copy came with a bonus hand written recipe!
SOLD.
“The association of men with birds has been long and close. Birds and men alike are active mostly during the day, so they share a familiar world of color and sound. In ancient times, priests of pagan cults believed that in some way bird flight foretold the future.”
One of my favorite things to collect are vintage nature and science books. The ones I enjoy most are targeted towards young readers and reliably have the most WONDERFUL, original illustrations and early photography. Check out these beautiful drawings and diagrams from this 1967 print of The Birds.
This book is available for purchase. $12, Shipped in the US.
Vintage Book / The Birds / 1967
Vintage Science Book for young readers.
$12.00
One of Bill Drake’s seminal works on growing marijuana The Cultivator’s Handbook of Marijuana was self published in paperback / zine format in 1970 (this is a first edition). Definitely has an aura of authenticity and “can do” spirit that marked this early era in cannabis culture.
There are a few pictures from previous generations grow operations.
Cool black and white illustrations, political commentary and detailed instructions on the cultivation of marijuana.
This book is available for purchase on my etsy site. Click SHOP in the Menu .
We are taking our second trip to Mexico City at the end of this month and so in that spirit I thought I’d share some pics I snapped from this vintage Piñata book that I sold in my Etsy shop a few months back.
First, I love this gorgeous font and all of the details!
Illustrations by Melvin Bilek.
I find that most educational children’s books from the 1950’s have incredible art work on the covers and within. Even though some of the scientific captions are inaccurate in 2017, there is a wealth of information in these guides usually with sweet and detailed illustrations of the subject matter.
I’m saving my personal copies of Golden Guides and children’s learning books from the 50’s for myself and future children. Anyone who has a love for science and nature will see the value in preserving these charming books and referencing them often.
I like to keep and eye out for duplicates, sometimes they are in better shape than the ones I currently have. Books missing critical pages or covers make great gifts for vintage paper enthusiast and collage makers as these illustrations are perfect for art projects and thoughtful stationary. I purchase these books from thrift and antique shops as well as directly from Etsy and online sellers.
You can find a great collection of books and paper goods on my own etsy shop:
and see whats new and coming up at the shop on Instagram @blackwellhabitat