Best in Children's Books Value Guide

The 1958 Best in Children's Books series by Doubleday is a quintessential example of mid-century American publishing, curated to bring diverse literary classics and new works into the home. These volumes are highly collectible for their vibrant illustrations and their role as a cultural staple in post-war households.

What Is Best in Children's Books Worth?

The typical price range for Best in Children's Books is $15 - $25 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence and condition of the original dust jacket significantly impact the $15-$25 market value.
• Internal condition, specifically the absence of crayon marks, foxing, or torn pages common in used children's books.
• The specific illustrators featured in the volume, as some mid-century artists are more sought after by collectors.
• Structural integrity of the spine and the crispness of the ink colors on the cover art.

How to Identify Best in Children's Books?

• Check for the Doubleday & Company imprint and the specific 1958 copyright date on the title page.
• Verify the presence of the original colorful dust jacket, which often features a distinct mid-century graphic style.
• Look for the signature hardcover binding made of durable cardboard with printed paper overlays.
• Confirm the inclusion of multiple stories and illustrators within a single volume, a hallmark of this specific series.

History of Best in Children's Books

Doubleday's 'Best in Children's Books' series was a popular collection of illustrated children's stories published from the mid-1950s through the 1960s. Each volume typically featured a diverse selection of stories by various authors and illustrators, often including well-known classics and new works. These books were cherished for their colorful illustrations and the variety of narratives, making them a staple in many mid-century American households.