Little Merchant
Little Merchant
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Condition Notes: Cover contains moderate shelf wear. Pages are clean and in good shape. Binding shows where between the gutters in a couple spots but still well intact.
Author(s): Oliver Optic
Binding: Hardcover
Language: English
Publisher: Hurst & Company
Condition: GoodISBN:
Little Merchant tells the story of a young, industrious boy named Ben, who rises above hardship and poverty through determination, honesty, and hard work. Set in a bustling urban environment of the early 20th century, the novel follows Ben’s journey from a struggling street vendor to a respected and successful small businessman.
Ben begins his work life as a humble newsboy and peddler, navigating the daily challenges of survival in a competitive city. Despite temptations and setbacks—including dishonest competitors, poverty, and moments of self-doubt—Ben stays true to his principles. His kindness, integrity, and resourcefulness earn him friends and allies who help him along the way.
As Ben faces moral tests and personal growth, the story conveys strong messages about perseverance, self-reliance, and the rewards of virtuous living. Like many of Oliver Optic’s works, Little Merchant blends adventure with didactic themes, aiming to inspire young readers—particularly boys—with a model of upright character and industrious spirit.
The novel is a classic example of early American juvenile fiction, reflecting the era’s belief in the American Dream and the power of individual effort to overcome adversity.
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Book Condition Scale
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Like New
This book is in excellent condition and appears to have been read only once. The pages are clean and unmarked, with no creases or stains. The binding remains firm and tight. There may be minimal signs of shelf wear on the cover or dust jacket, but overall, the book looks and feels nearly new.
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Very Good
This book has been read but remains in great condition. It does not look new, yet there is no obvious damage to the cover. Wear and tear are minimal. The pages are clean, free of highlighting or notes, though it may contain identifying marks from a previous owner or bookstore.
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Good
This book shows moderate to heavy signs of wear that can include creases, stains or tears. The cover may have minimal damage, and the binding remains intact with slight wear. The majority of pages are undamaged, though there may be some highlighting, underlining, or notes. It may also contain identifying marks from a previous owner or bookstore.
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Acceptable
This book shows significant wear, which may include tears, large stains, creases, loose pages, and heavy notes, underlining, or highlighting. The binding may be loose but remains intact. While it has noticeable imperfections, it is still a complete and readable copy. Any major defects will be clearly noted in the listing.
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As Is
This book is visibly worn and may be heavily soiled, scuffed, stained, or spotted. It may have loose joints, hinges, or pages, and some text or pages may be missing. Large tears and other significant defects may be present. While still a readable copy, it shows substantial signs of use. Any major flaws will be clearly noted in the listing.
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Dust Jacket Grading
(A) Excellent
The dust jacket is in excellent condition, may show the slightest signs of shelf wear, if any.(B) Good
Shows minor shelf wear, usually along edges and may have a few light stains.(C) Fair
Displays moderate shelf wear, including some noticeable small tears, creasing and/or stains.(D) Poor
Contains large tears, several creases, and/or heavy staining.(F) As Is
Shows significant wear and tear. Majority of dust jacket is torn or missing. May contain heavy staining.
