Identification

"Shannon's Way" by A.J. Cronin, Hardcover (1948 Copyright)

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

The book is clearly identified by the cover title block and the copyright page, which confirms the author (A. J. Cronin) and the copyright year (1948).

Story

A. J. Cronin was a highly successful Scottish physician-turned-novelist whose works frequently explored medical ethics and social issues. 'Shannon's Way' (1948) is a sequel to 'The Green Years' and was a major bestseller of its era, resulting in massive initial print runs. Mid-century popular fiction like A. J. Cronin's works are abundant on the secondary market. Demand is generally limited to casual readers or completist collectors, keeping prices modest.

Maker / Origin

A.J. Cronin (Author)

Condition & Value

Based on the provided photos, the crimson cloth boards and black-and-gold title block appear well-preserved with minimal edge wear. The book is in good vintage condition. The red cloth cover shows minor shelf wear and light fading, and the gold gilt remains bright.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Market Analysis

Mid-century popular fiction like A. J. Cronin's works are abundant on the secondary market. Demand is generally limited to casual readers or completist collectors, keeping prices modest. Copies without dust jackets typically move slowly as reading copies, while those with intact, attractive jackets sell faster and command a slight premium.

Value Drivers

Clean, vibrant crimson cloth binding presents well for display

A. J. Cronin remains a recognized name in mid-century medical fiction

Concerns

Unverified dust jacket — missing jackets relegate mid-century fiction to the reading-copy floor

Unverified publisher — Book Club Editions trade lower than true first trade editions

Best Venue

List on a broad online marketplace like eBay or Etsy. If the dust jacket is present, ensure it is photographed and protected in a Mylar sleeve to maximize appeal. If it is an unjacketed reading copy, price near the lower end of the range for a quicker sale.

Upside Potential

If the book includes a pristine, unclipped original dust jacket and the title page confirms it as a first trade edition by Little, Brown and Company, it could reach the high end of the range. There is no realistic upside beyond $25-$30 for this heavily printed title.

Also found — market-range context

Related comps outside the valuation band· 1 comp

Surfaced during research but not used to anchor the valuation — wrong form, species, era, or no published price. Shown so the market range around this item is visible.

  • Black's Bookshop
    Shannon's Way. A. J. Cronin. Boston: Little, Brown & Co., 1948. Hardcover. BCE.
    Link could not be verified.
    $14