BEARSKIN BOUND

The Biggest Bear cover wrapped in bear furOpened page of The Biggest Bear with image of a little boy and a bear

This first edition of The Biggest Bear by Lynd Ward, bound in genuine bear skin, is a unique piece of literary history. Published in 1952, this bestselling children’s book tells the tale of Johnny Orchard and his unlikely friendship with a troublesome bear. This is a very special edition because it was gifted to Ward by his publisher. It features a cover crafted from real bear fur which adds a tactile element to this story. This edition exemplifies the enduring appeal of Ward’s narrative and captivating illustrations. I chose this book because it is unforgettable, and you will never see another like it.

by Collin Jenkins, Finance, Class of 2026

Lynd Ward
The Biggest Bear (Boston: Houghton Mifflin Co., 1952)
The Lynd Ward Collection of Wood Engravings and Other Graphic Art
Eberly Family Special Collections Library

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