The Story of Nelson 1957 Edition
The Story of Nelson — Vintage Ladybird Book, Series 561
Title: The Story of Nelson
Author: L. Du Garde Peach
Illustrator: John Kenney
Publisher: Ladybird Books Ltd., Loughborough, Leicestershire, England
Series: Ladybird Series 561 — Adventures from History
First published: 1957
Format: Illustrated hardcover
Subject: Horatio Nelson / British Naval History / Children’s History
Vintage cover price: 24p net
Reference number shown: 07214 0162 7
About the Book
A charming vintage Ladybird introduction to the life of Admiral Horatio Nelson, one of Britain’s most celebrated naval commanders. Written especially for younger readers, The Story of Nelson follows Nelson from his childhood and early experiences at sea through his remarkable naval career and ultimately the Battle of Trafalgar.
The book was written by L. Du Garde Peach and beautifully illustrated by John Kenney, whose detailed, full-colour historical paintings became a defining feature of Ladybird’s much-loved history books. The title was originally published in 1957 as part of Ladybird’s Series 561.
Ladybird “Adventures from History” Series
Series 561 was Ladybird’s extensive Adventures from History collection, introducing children to important historical figures and periods through accessible storytelling and colourful illustrations. The Story of Nelson was the fourth title in the series.
Other titles advertised on the back of this particular copy include King Alfred the Great, William the Conqueror, Sir Walter Raleigh, Florence Nightingale, Captain Cook, Christopher Columbus, Marco Polo, Alexander the Great, Robert the Bruce, Richard the Lion Heart, Cleopatra and Ancient Egypt, Napoleon, Joan of Arc and Henry VIII.
About This Copy
The illustrated boards on this copy feature Nelson in naval uniform against a maritime backdrop, while the interior contains the characteristic full-page colour historical illustrations associated with classic Ladybird books.
Importantly, this is a later printing rather than the 1957 first edition. The 24p price and the long list of 32 Series 561 titles on the rear board indicate a substantially later issue; Henry VIII, the final title listed on this copy, was added to the series after the earliest Nelson editions. Therefore, for a sales listing I would describe it as “vintage later edition/printing, originally published 1957” rather than as a first edition.
Condition
Vintage pre-owned condition. The photographed copy shows noticeable age and shelf wear to the illustrated boards, including rubbing and wear around the edges and corners, light surface marks and some spotting/discolouration. The interior illustrated pages shown appear bright and attractive for their age. Please refer to photographs as they form part of the condition description.
Collector’s Note
Early and vintage Ladybird books have developed a strong following among collectors, particularly the classic history titles illustrated by John Kenney. This is an appealing nostalgic piece of British children’s publishing and would suit a Ladybird collector, vintage book collection, naval-history enthusiast or a reader interested in Admiral Nelson.