A paired set of classic biology / natural history textbooks from the 1950s–1960s classroom era. Elements of Biology (1957) offers clear explanations with abundant B&W photos and charts; Biology: The Living World (1968) adds vivid color art and updated science for the period.
Together they make a solid reference and striking display—perfect for homeschoolers, teachers, and retro science décor.
Quick Specs
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Item Type: Lot of 2 vintage hardcover biology textbooks
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Size: Book 1 — 9 × 6 × 1.5 in; Book 2 — 9 × 7 × 1.25 in
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Material: Cloth over boards; paper text blocks
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Color: Olive/green boards with printed motifs
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Origin or Maker: Allyn & Bacon (Book 1); Ginn and Company (Book 2)
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Year or Era: 1957; 1968
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GENRE: Natural History / Biology Textbooks
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Language / Pages: English — 746 pp; 705 pp
Edition & Features
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Edition/Printing: Later revised edition (1957); later printing (1968)
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Dust Jacket: Missing (both)
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Illustrations/Maps/Plates: Book 1—extensive B&W photos, charts, diagrams; Book 2—numerous color illustrations and B&W figures, unit self-tests
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Extras: Period study references; classroom objectives
Condition Grade: Good
Notes: Sound bindings; expected shelf and edge wear; corner bumps/rubs; typical age toning. Prior owner names/notations present. Text pages clean and fully legible.
See all photos for detail—sold as pictured.
Condition Grade Key
Near Fine: minimal wear; tight; clean.
Very Good: light wear; clean text; minor flaws.
Good: noticeable wear; sound reading copy; some marks.
Fair: heavy wear; complete but worn; priced accordingly.
Provenance & Notes
Handwritten ownership mark visible; estate source. Additional publisher data/IDs: Not provided.
About the Author
William M. Smallwood and collaborators shaped American high-school biology for decades; Allyn & Bacon served as a leading U.S. educational publisher throughout the 20th century.
Add a foundational natural-history text to your shelf—great for study, decor, or gift-giving.
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Disclaimer
The vintage items I share with you have been previously owned and loved and may show some wear. Please use the pictures as a guide. While I do my best to capture colors accurately, your monitor or device screen may display colors slightly differently from the actual item.
Care & Handling: Handle with clean, dry hands. Store upright, out of direct sunlight, at about 68°F and 40–50% relative humidity. Avoid damp areas and extreme temperature swings.
Please note: If you have any questions or need more photos, ask.
About Reading Vintage
At Reading Vintage, I curate one-of-a-kind treasures for book lovers, decorators, and collectors—including vintage books, retro bookends, and charming collectible pieces.
