Both the Libraria and the Library editions of THE SWISS FAMILY ROBINSON have been bound and shipped to our U.S. warehouse. The books are currently being shipped to the U.S. subscribers, and international shipments will begin the week after next since the warehouse is taking a well-deserved break next week.
The stamp quality is very good despite the challenges posed by the intricate stamp design. This is the Library version, which is bound in black cowhide
The spine stampings are a cross between the representational imagery we’ve customarily favored and the more abstract imagery that was traditionally utilized by Franklin Library. The black cowhide of the Library edition distinguishes it from the dark brown goatskin in which the Libraria is bound.
The interior is chock full of excellent illustrations of various sizes, and, as always, the layouts feature margins that have been carefully adjusted to maximize the reading comfort and minimize shadows falling upon the text block.
We’ve also changed our approach to the back covers of the Libraria editions. Instead of simply repeating the front cover, we’ve replaced it with the stamped Libraria logo, complete with the ECCE ET SISTO motto, which is based on an old Chinese saying, 觀止 (Guānzhǐ) from the early classic Zuo Zhuan that literally translates as “Stop, look” and indicates exceptional quality.
When he saw the dancers of the Shaon-hoo and the dance of ‘ang of Yin he said, “The magnanimity of the sage! and still there was something to be ashamed of;—his position was hard even for a sage.”
When he saw the dancers of the ‘Ta-héa and the music of Yu he said, “Admirable! Zealous labour without any assumption of merit!—who but Yu could have accomplished this?”
When he saw the dancers of the Shaou-séaou and the music of Shu, he said, “Virtue was here complete. This is great. It is like the universal overshadowing of heaven, and the universal sustaining of the earth. The most complete virtue could add nothing to this. Let the exhibition stop. If there be any other music, I shall not presume to ask to hear it.”
For those who are not subscribers, we have extra copies of THE SWISS FAMILY ROBINSON that are available for purchase at the usual two locations. Subscribers who would like additional copies can use the usual discount code at the Arkhaven store.
For questions about subscription status and billings: subs@castalialibrary.com
For questions about shipping and missing books: castaliashipping@gmail.com
Mine just arrived in the mail! The pictures don’t do it justice. The interior drawings are unbelievable!!
I'm a history and cathedra subscriber interested in this book. Do I get any sort of a discount on this purchase? If not, no big deal. I just didn't want to miss out on one of I do. Thank you!