First Edition- Scarce- “When We Were Very Young” by A.A. Milne

When We Were Very Young is a landmark collection of children’s poetry by A.A. Milne, first published in 1924. This book marks Milne’s debut in children’s literature and was inspired by his observations of his young son, Christopher Robin Milne, who would later become a central figure in the beloved Winnie-the-Pooh stories. The poems are illustrated by E.H. Shepard, whose whimsical drawings became inseparable from Milne’s writing.

The collection features 45 poems that capture the innocence, imagination, and subtle complexities of childhood. Notably, the poem “Teddy Bear” introduces Edward Bear—who would soon become known worldwide as Winnie-the-Pooh—making this volume the first published appearance of the iconic character. The poems are celebrated for their wit, warmth, and emotional resonance, appealing to both children and adults. Upon its release, the book was an immediate bestseller, praised for its gentle humor and insight into the world of children.

This American edition, was published by E.P. Dutton & Company in 1924, shortly after the original British edition by Methuen & Co. Ltd. The Dutton edition is notable for its red cloth binding and similar illustrations by Shepard.

Near Fine condition (tight binding, clean pages, minimal wear)