Stuart Little by E.B. White — 1945 Hardcover Edition E-H Imp 1st US Edition
Stuart Little by E.B. White — 1945 Hardcover Edition
This is a cherished hardcover edition of Stuart Little by E.B. White, with a 1945 copyright and an E-H impression, published by Harper & Brothers in New York. The dust jacket shows some wear, with small chips and tears around the edges, and a bit of fraying at the top and bottom of the spine. I've placed it in an archival-quality clear sleeve to help preserve it.
The front hinge is just beginning to crack after the front end page, but the book still feels sturdy. The inside flap has been price clipped, and there's a handwritten price of $2.50. Interestingly, the first two pages were hand-cut a bit unevenly—an original manufacturing flaw that adds character. Otherwise, there are no markings, inscriptions, or dog-eared pages that I could find. The book is illustrated with charming black-and-white drawings throughout.
I added this title to my collection because I have fond memories of my mother reading it to me when I was a child. It was one of the first stories that sparked my love for books.
About the Book:
Stuart Little tells the whimsical tale of a mouse born into a human family in New York City, and his adventures as he sets out in search of friendship and meaning in the world beyond his home. It's a timeless children's classic, blending gentle humor with themes of resilience, independence, and identity.
Why It’s Been Criticized:
Though widely beloved, Stuart Little has faced occasional criticism and challenges—mainly for its portrayal of anthropomorphism and its ambiguous ending, which some parents and educators found too unresolved or sophisticated for younger readers. In earlier decades, it was also challenged for being “unsuitable” because of its fantastical premise—a talking mouse born to human parents—especially among more conservative audiences who preferred more literal or moralistic children’s literature.
Why It’s Important:
Despite any pushback, Stuart Little has remained an essential work in children’s literature for its originality, imagination, and emotional depth. E.B. White’s storytelling invites young readers to think beyond the ordinary, explore curiosity and courage, and appreciate the beauty of difference and determination. For many—including me—it’s not just a story about a mouse, but a nostalgic touchstone to childhood and the power of stories shared with family.
