Preliminary identification

Frederic F. Van de Water, 'Catch a Falling Star', First Edition, 1949

Photo reference

3 uploaded photos

Overview

A first edition of Frederic F. Van de Water's historical novel set in Revolutionary-era Vermont. This volume is a classic example of mid-century American historical fiction, exploring the complex political landscape of the 'Green Mountain Boys' and Vermont's struggle for independence.

Story

Published in 1949, this novel brings to life the gritty, double-war of Vermont's founding. Van de Water was a famed journalist who lived in Vermont and became obsessed with its local legends. This specific copy features a touching dedication to Nelson and Frances Withington, prominent figures in the author's Brattleboro social circle.

Maker / Origin

Frederic Franklyn Van de Water (1890–1968) was a prolific American journalist and novelist known for his deep ties to Vermont. A former New York State Trooper and Harper's contributor, he famously documented the feud between Rudyard Kipling and his Vermont brother-in-law.

Condition & Value

The book shows significant 'toning' (browning) to the page edges, which is common for 1940s paper. The cloth cover appears clean, though the absence of the dust jacket significantly impacts the market value for serious book collectors. The binding appears tight and intact.

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

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.