Sexton Blake Library – Number 401 – VG+

Not familiar with Sexton Blake?

While oft-times characterized as "the poor man's Sherlock Holmes," the comparison is neither fair nor apt. Instead of going into detailo here, though, I would refer you to the Wikipedia entry for Sexton Blake: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sexton_Blake and to this Sexton Blake fan site: http://sextonblake.ning.com/

Up until #512, the issues are 64-page digest-sized books. From 513 to 526 the format changed to "almost paperback size," with the dimensions just a bit larger than standard paperbacks, while maintaing the page count at 64. After #526 (1963), a new publisher took over, switching to paperback format and modernizing the stories. These editions, by Mayflower-Dell are not highly regarded by Sexton Blake fans. An interesting side note is that the first novel by highly esteemed fantasy writer Michael Moorcock to be published was a Sexton Blake issue (co-written with Jim Cawthorn), #501, "Caribbean Crisis."

Grading:
Fine (F) - Virtually as new, with only minute flaws.
Very Good Plus to Fine (VG+/F) - Looks almost new, but for some minor wear. No creases or tears.
Very Good Plus (VG+) - An above-average used book, with only light wear, light reading crease, and mildly tanned pages.
Very Good (VG) - Average used copy, with mild to moderate wear and creasing, and tanned pages. Binding is solid; no  loose pages.
Good (G) - Collectors' euphemism for "Not Good." Book shows heavy wear, creasing, brown pages. Binding may be loose, but not detached. No loose or missing pages. A reader or a filler until you find a nicer copy.
Fair (Fr) - An intact copy, but really not much going for it except as a cheap reader.