The Fun of It by Amelia Earhart (Stated First Edition, 1932)

A hardcover first edition copy of 'The Fun of It: Random Records of My Own Flying and of Women in Aviation' by legendary aviator Amelia Earhart, published in 1932 by Brewer, Warren & Putnam. The book is bound in the publisher's original dark blue-grey pebbled cloth (sometimes described as navy buckram). The front cover features the title and author's name prominently stamped in a characteristic orange/salmon colored ink with a slightly rounded, Art Deco-influenced typeface. Physical condition shows moderate shelf wear, particularly visible along the spine edge and corners. The top left corner of the spine shows significant fraying of the cloth, exposing the underlying binding. There is also rubbing along the front hinge and minor bumping at the corners. The orange lettering on the front remains relatively vibrant but shows slight rubbing. This specific title was originally issued with a small 78 RPM record inside a pocket on the rear inside cover featuring Earhart's voice; the presence and condition of that record would significantly impact the overall appraised value. As a 1930s aviation memoir, it represents a pivotal piece of feminist and aeronautical history, detailing Earhart's experiences including her solo flight across the Atlantic.

I have examined the provided images of Amelia Earhart's 'The Fun of It' (1932, First Edition). The book's binding is consistent with the Brewer, Warren & Putnam first printing, notably the dark navy-grey pebbled cloth and distinct salmon-orange Art Deco typography. While the front cover's lettering remains legible and relatively bright, the physical condition is a significant limiting factor. I observed notable fraying at the spine head and moderate rubbing across the hinges and corners, suggesting a 'Good' to 'Very Good Minus' condition rather than 'Fine.' The most critical variable in this appraisal is the rear pocket phonograph record. Since I cannot confirm its presence or condition, this valuation assumes the record is missing. If the 78 RPM record were present and playable, the value could easily exceed $1,200-$1,500. Without it, the book serves primarily as a representative first edition. Comparable sales of copies in this condition without the record typically fall in the $400-$600 range. Current market demand for Amelia Earhart memorabilia remains high due to her enduring status as an icon of aviation and feminism. However, condition issues like the spine fraying noted here are common deterrents for high-end collectors. Please note that a definitive authentication of the binding's original components and a verification of the phonograph's presence require a physical inspection. Furthermore, inspecting for a signature or checking the title page for the '1932' date under the publisher's imprint is necessary to absolutely confirm the first printing status.