Clarence Goes to Town Value Guide

Clarence Goes to Town by Patricia Lauber 1968 | eBay
Clarence Goes to Town
Estimated Value
$8 – $10
Period
1960-1970
Origin
United States
Materials
Paper, ink, adhesive

This vintage Scholastic edition of Clarence Goes to Town captures the nostalgic charm of 1960s and 1970s book fairs. Written by Newbery Honor author Patricia Lauber, this collectible is highly sought after for its iconic illustrations by Leonard Shortall and its portrayal of Clarence, the TV-loving dog.

What Is Clarence Goes to Town Worth?

The typical price range for Clarence Goes to Town is $8 - $10 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

  • Overall structural condition, specifically looking for spine creasing, yellowing of the pulp paper, or 'foxing' on the page edges.
  • Presence of original owner names or school stamps, which are common in Scholastic editions but can decrease market value.
  • The vibrancy of the cover art colors, as the red and blue inks used in this era are prone to fading if exposed to light.
  • Completeness of the book, ensuring no pages are loose or missing from the original adhesive binding.

How to Identify Clarence Goes to Town?

  • Check for the Scholastic Book Services logo and the TX series catalog number on the front cover or spine.
  • Verify the presence of interior black-and-white illustrations specifically credited to Leonard Shortall.
  • Confirm the publisher's address as New York, published by Scholastic Book Services, a division of Scholastic Magazines, Inc.
  • Look for the distinct matte paper finish and square-bound adhesive spine characteristic of mid-century mass-market paperbacks.

History of Clarence Goes to Town

First published in 1957, this popular series follows the adventures of Clarence, a TV-loving dog. This specific paperback edition was a staple of Scholastic Book Fairs throughout the 1960s and 1970s, featuring illustrations by Leonard Shortall. Patricia Lauber was a prolific author of over 100 children's books and was a Newbery Honor recipient.

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