Werner Laurie Show Book - Series A Number 1 - from Enid Blyton's Rubbalong Tales, 1952

This fabulous Werner Laurie show book theatre was lovingly created by a child (or parent) in the 1950s and depicts an incident from Enid Blyton’s Rubbalong Tales drawn by Norman Meredith. I’m so glad this rare treasure survived for future generations to enjoy. This accordion folding peepshow includes seven panels featuring the inhabitants of Tiptop village - Rubbalong, Dame Dandy, Grabbit the gnome, Mr and Mrs Tuck and Mr Rumbustious. It is the first in a series published by Werner Laurie in the 1950s. These are very rare. There is one that hasn't been cut and assembled in the Victoria and Albert Museum. Published in 1952, this is now approaching its 75th birthday. On the back cover the creators describe it as an "offspring of the Victorian Peephow". It was clearly cut out and assembled with care, there is some foxing to the outer boards and the stage curtain page but internally it is in good order. There have been some knocks to the corners but overall, it is in good condition for its age and the age of its users. If you'd like to see a video of this fabulous relic of mid-century childhood, please check out our instagram or facebook pages. It was uploaded on 27 February 2025. 

Please look closely at the photographs as they form part of the description. If you have any questions at all, please get in touch directly (contact@eldercroftandsons.co.nz). 

If you are based in Wellington, delivery can always be arranged for free in the central, southern and eastern suburbs or for $5 in the northern and western suburbs. Please get in contact if you'd like your purchase delivered.