Roald Dahl: first edition 1981 George’s Marvellous Medicine (1st State/DJ)

This is the elusive First State, First Impression – printed before the "Warning Box" was added. The Collector’s "First State" Evidence Not all 1981 First Editions are created equal. This copy is the highly sought-after "First State," making it significantly scarcer and more valuable than the standard first edition.

NO SAFETY WARNING: Later editions include a prominent, boxed safety warning on the copyright page to prevent children from mimicking George's concoction. This copy features the clean, plain-text copyright page—exactly as it was released before the publisher's legal panic.

THE RARE DEDICATION: Includes the original, cheeky dedication: "This book is for doctors everywhere." This line was famously removed or altered in many later versions.

The "Dark & Risqué" Dahl Magic This 1981 edition preserves Dahl’s original, subversive vision in its "nasty" glory. Written at the height of his creative powers, the story is a masterpiece of dark comedy and childhood rebellion.

Uncensored Text: Contains the original, punchy language and descriptions that have been softened in modern "sensitivity" reprints. Anarchic Spirit: Follow George as he mixes a lethal cocktail of household chemicals (including antifreeze and engine oil) to deal with his "grizzly old grunion" of a grandmother. This is Dahl at his most deliciously dangerous.

Condition Report This copy has been exceptionally well-preserved and presents beautifully on a shelf. Dust Jacket: Original and NOT price-clipped. Bright colors with the iconic Quentin Blake illustrations. (Note: Under certain light, a faint indentation is visible on a small area of the front, likely from being used as a writing surface—a minor sign of its history).

Binding & Boards: Bound in the original blue cloth with crisp, vibrant gilt lettering on the spine. The binding is tight and square. (Note: There is a small, minor stain on the boards, disclosed for total accuracy). Internal: The pages are remarkably clean