Charles Dickens’ - Cricket On The Hearth; A Fairy Tale of Home

Undated, c.1903/1904
Henry Altemus Company, Publisher/ Philadelphia

This book was part of this publisher’s decorative small book series called Petit Trianon Series.

"Cricket on the Hearth" is a novella written by Charles Dickens, originally published in 1845. The story is a heartwarming and whimsical Christmas tale that revolves around the Peerybingle family. The central character, John Peerybingle, a carrier, discovers that his beloved wife, Dot, may have feelings for a mysterious guest named Caleb Plummer, which triggers a series of misunderstandings and emotional turmoil. However, the story takes a fantastical turn when the cricket on the hearth—a symbol of household cheer and good fortune—comes to life as a chirping fairy, guiding the characters toward reconciliation, love, and happiness. Dickens weaves a tale of love, forgiveness, and the magical spirit of Christmas, creating a timeless story that warms the hearts of readers with its themes of family, kindness, and the joy of the holiday season.

Pink with ivory boards and spine, illustrated floral detail to front board, gilt detail and text to front board and spine with some rubbing, gilt top edges, frontispiece, illustrated within, some staining to front board( note photo) rubbing to corners/edges and spine edges, light bumping to spine edges, binding tight, clean pages, 192pp. Cover with some moderate wear from age; inside very good condition.

Rare Book

Size: 4 1/4” x 6 1/4”

A beautiful keepsake of this Christmas classic!