Boners

This eighth printing of Boners from September 1931 by The Viking Press, complete with remnants of the original dust jacket front, represents an early and rare example of Dr. Seuss's work before he became famous for his children's books. Published during Theodor Seuss Geisel's early career when he was working primarily as a cartoonist and humorist for adult audiences, Boners showcases the wit and artistic style that would later make him one of America's most beloved children's authors.

The book compiles humorous student mistakes and misunderstandings, illustrated with Seuss's characteristic whimsical drawings that demonstrate his developing artistic voice. This collection reflects the popular humor of the early 1930s while showcasing the distinctive visual style that would later become iconic in children's literature. The work reveals Seuss's early mastery of combining visual and verbal humor, skills that would prove essential to his later success in children's publishing.

The survival of even just the front of the dust jacket remnants on this 1931 edition makes it particularly valuable to collectors, as complete dust jackets from this early period in Seuss's career are extremely rare. The book's good condition despite watermarks on the cover testifies to its careful preservation and represents an important artifact from the pre-children's book phase of Seuss's career.