This is Ann. She's dying to meet you.

war against the mosquitos

First edition, first printing of this scarce early work by Dr. Seuss, with 'U.S. Government Printing Office: 1943-543637' on the inside rear cover as indicated by Younger & Hirsch, though bound with two staples rather than one. A lovely copy in unusually nice condition.

Theodore Geisel (1904-1991) began his career as an advertising illustrator, and his first children's book was published in 1937. He was heavily involved in the US effort during the Second World War, publishing over 400 editorial cartoons and producing posters for the Treasury Department and War Production Board. In 1943 Geisel was appointed commanding captain of the Animation Department, First Motion Picture Unit of the Army Air Forces, charged with producing training material for US troops. That same year Germany blocked the Allies' access to quinine, and this booklet was designed to educate service members about malaria prevention strategies such as bed nets, repellants, and the destruction of breeding places. The name of the mosquito character, Ann, is a play on the genus Anopheles.

First edition; 36-page pamphlet, wire-stitched, wrappers and contents printed in red and black, wrappers very faintly toned, minor paperclip indentation, short closed tear to the final leaf of text, an excellent, fresh copy.

Younger & Hirsch, First Editions of Dr. Seuss Books 78.