'People at Work': The Sailor – I. & J. Havenhand

Description: England's first dedicated Navy was established in 1483 by Henry VII, and consisted of just two ships. Written in large text, and a relatively simple vocabulary, this book focusses on the Royal Navy of the present day (read: late-1960s). Within its pages are fascinating facts about the different classes of ship used (e.g. cruisers, minesweepers, aircraft carriers, &c.), and the various roles assigned to the men – there was a separate Women's Royal Naval Service at the time – serving on them; from sonar operators to deep sea divers. Information is also provided about the various ordinance used on the vessels (including the controversial Polaris missile).

A must for the naval buff!

In true Ladybird fashion, there are beautiful full-page colour illustrations on each facing page – highlights include the deck of the Ark Royal; the Antarctic patrol ship H.M.S. Protector (scrapped a mere 3 years later); and an exquisite illustration of a 15th Century galleon. Front pastedown and endpaper are illustrated with colour depictions of Marks of Rank, Cap Badges, Badges of Rate, Ratings' Badges. rep is illustrated with colour depictions of eight medals, including the Victoria and George Crosses.

Matt pictorial boards. Corners lightly bumped; spine ends more so. The spine is rubbed and damaged at its foot, where part of the binding underneath has become exposed on the rear. Apart from the odd, light jot of foxing here and there, the book is in superb internal condition: pages are crisp, bright, unmarked, and very tightly bound.

Genuine first edition: The Sailor is the last title listed on the rear; original price of 2′6 NET printed on verso; tally number 180.

Measures 17.5 cm × 11.5 cm (7″ × 4.6″). 12mo. 52 pp.

Price: £12.95