1875 Graded School Fifth Reader | Antique Illustrated School Book | Eclectic Series

A well-preserved example of a 19th-century American school reader, this Fifth Reader by T. W. Harvey belongs to the widely used Eclectic Educational Series—texts that helped shape literacy, elocution, and moral instruction in the post–Civil War classroom.

The volume offers a substantial collection of prose and verse selections, including works attributed to Charles Dickens, Washington Irving, Hans Christian Andersen, and others, reflecting the literary canon presented to students of the period. Sections on elocution and articulation provide additional insight into how reading and speech were taught, making this an appealing piece not only for collectors but also for those interested in the history of education.

The binding retains its original cloth boards with blind-stamped decorative elements, complemented by a contrasting black spine with worn gilt titling and ornamental detailing. 

Binding secure, noticeable wear to spine with rubbing, boards show age and surface wear, interior with toning and scattered spotting. Internal wear to pages consistent with age. Illustrated throughout with engravings.

Condition: Good;

Size:  5” x 7.5”

Ideal for collectors of antique schoolbooks or early American print culture.