Some go for only fiction or only non-fiction.
Some for particular series that they remember as a child.
Some want to collect only the oldest version of any title.
Some want First Editions.
Some are interested in all the different variations of series and cover, eratum stickers , tally number and even variations in original price.
Some collectors want only the standard sized Ladybird books that were first issued in 1940.
Others are interested in all the books published under the label ‘Ladybird’ including the large format children’s books produced by Wills and Hepworth in the 1930s, the ‘Gift’ size and ‘Special’ sized books of the 1980s, the Tiny Tales of the 1990s and all the varations of sizes that have been tried out in recent years.
Personally, I can’t get too excited about Ladybird books after the 1970s with the exception of a few series such as the wonderful Puddle Lane books. But each to their own.
Anyway, there follow a few ideas about things to look out for when getting started with your Ladybird book collection or when looking for inspiration for your Ladybird book thesis…