Boyd, James (1888–1944)

Drums [First Edition with N C Wyeth Color Plates]

New York: Charles Scribner’s Sons, 1928. First Edition, Thus.

James Boyd’s first published novel, Drums, set in Edenton, North Carolina during the American Revolution, has been widely regarded as one of the finest fictional accounts of the period. This First Edition is distinguished by illustrations by N C Wyeth that enhance the narrative’s historical character and visual appeal.

KEY FEATURES
+++ Visuals: 14 color plates from N C Wyeth designs (likely tipped-in photomechanical color reproductions typical of Scribner’s period illustrated trade editions); 47 pen and ink drawings by the same artist; illustrated endpapers.
+++ Binding: Original black cloth boards with gilt spine titles; mounted color illustration pasted to front panel and with decorated endpapers; top edge stained. Minor wear to pasted front illustration, better than commonly seen.
+++ Content: Revolutionary War era novel centered on South Carolina and North Carolina backcountry during the conflict; psychological, sociological, and historical engagement elevates the genre.
+++ Associated Names: Illustrated by N C Wyeth, master American illustrator known for his work in early twentieth century American literature.

CONDITION: Very Good -- Bindings tight and square; text clean with light, even age-toning; minimal shelf handling wear; top edge stained. Minor wear to pasted on front illustration but otherwise attractive, better than is usually seen for this edition.
+++ Imprint: Charles Scribner’s Sons, New York, 1928. First Edition (no rear ad for Smoky present).
+++ Specs: 9.25 inches tall; xii [1], 3–409 pages.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE
James Boyd was an American novelist whose early work established him as a leading chronicler of historical fiction in the United States. Drums, his first novel, draws on meticulous research and a compelling narrative voice to portray life and conflict during the American Revolution. Set in the colonial South, the novel blends psychological realism with period detail and has been called the best novel written about the Revolution.

The inclusion of illustrations by N C Wyeth — one of the foremost American illustrators of the early twentieth century — marks this First Edition as a significant collaboration between literary and visual arts.

The vivid color plates and pen drawings bring to life key scenes and characters, enhancing both the historical and emotional impact of the narrative. Drums was recognized by Life Magazine as one of the 100 outstanding books of 1924–1944, reflecting its lasting stature in American letters.

SUBJECTS: American Revolution fiction, American historical novels, North Carolina literature, N C Wyeth illustrations, James Boyd, Historical Fiction.

Item #21531

Price: $225.00