The Outline of History by H.G. Wells is a comprehensive two-volume reference tracing human civilization from the earliest life through World War II—a foundational work that shaped how millions understood their world.
Revised by Raymond Postgate through the end of the Second World War, this set features maps and plans by J.F. Horrabin and delivers over 1,000 pages of illustrated history.
It's the kind of book that belongs on a serious collector's shelf or a home library where history matters.
Details
-
Item: Two-volume hardcover book set with dust jackets
-
Title: The Outline of History: Being a Plain History of Life and Mankind
-
Author: H.G. Wells
-
Revised by: Raymond Postgate
-
Maps and Plans by: J.F. Horrabin
-
Publisher: Garden City Books, Garden City, New York
-
Edition: Book Club Edition
-
Copyright: 1920, 1921, 1923, 1931, 1940, 1949, 1956 by H.G. Wells
-
Format: Hardcover, two volumes (Volume I and Volume II)
-
Pages: 1000 plus
-
Special Features: Over 1,000 pages, 200 maps and illustrations, detailed table of contents, indexed
-
Dust Jackets: Present on both volumes, red with gold lettering
-
Binding: Red and gold cloth with decorative borders
-
Measurements: 8¾" H × 6" W × 2" D
Condition Grade: Good
Positives
- Both volumes complete and intact with all pages present and readable
- Interior pages clean and well-preserved with minimal yellowing for age
- Maps and illustrations clear and detailed throughout
- Binding secure and sound on both volumes
- Both dust jackets present—a significant feature for a set this age
Issues / Wear
- Two major tears/rips visible on the red dust jacket surfaces (primary condition concern)
- Shelf wear visible on spine edges and corners of both volumes
- Age yellowing of pages throughout (normal and expected for 1950s printing)
- Book Club Edition designation (common print run, not first trade edition)
See all photos for detail — sold as pictured.
Condition Grade Key
-
Near Fine: Almost perfect. Very minor signs of age only.
-
Very Good: Shows light use. Sound and attractive with minor flaws.
-
Good: Complete and intact. Noticeable wear consistent with age and use.
-
Fair: Shows significant wear. Readable or usable but clearly used.
Collector's Notes
H.G. Wells wrote this summary of human history to give readers a framework for understanding their own moment in time. It became a genuine bestseller—over two million copies sold worldwide—and shaped how generations understood progress, war, and civilization itself.
This is the book for collectors who believe the best histories are readable and comprehensive—the kind you can actually open, explore, and return to. It works as both a research reference and a statement piece on a home library shelf.
The Postgate revision runs the narrative all the way through World War II, making this particular printing the most complete version available outside the earliest editions.
A handsome set with presence and substance, and the kind of book people notice when they visit.
Shipping + Trust (Reading Vintage standards)
- Photo-verified condition (no surprises)
- Packed with our protective packaging standard
- Ships in 1 business day
- Free Shipping on $35+ (U.S. only)
Disclaimer
All items are vintage and may show signs of age, wear, or use consistent with their history. Photos show the exact condition of each piece—please review them carefully, as they are part of the description.
Care and 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.
