Picture Dictionary (Octopus First Colour Library)

Title: Picture Dictionary (Octopus First Colour Library) Author/Editor: Felicia Law (Series Advisor / Associated Author) Illustrator: David Mostyn Publisher: Octopus Books Limited, London Publication Date: 1980 (First Edition) ISBN: 0 7064 1368 7 / 9780706413687 Format: Hardcover, large format (approx. 29 cm tall) Pages: 42–48 pp. (chiefly colour illustrations) Condition: Fine / Near Fine A beautiful first edition copy of Picture Dictionary from the beloved Octopus First Colour Library series. This vibrant educational children's book, first published in 1980 by Octopus Books Limited (London), is a delightful introduction to vocabulary for young readers, featuring over 500 illustrated words arranged alphabetically with engaging, full-colour cartoon-style artwork on nearly every page. About the Illustrator – David Mostyn: David Mostyn is a renowned British cartoonist, illustrator, and graphic designer based in the Oxford area. With a career spanning decades, he has contributed whimsical, humorous, and highly detailed illustrations to hundreds of children's books, comics, and educational materials in the UK, Europe, the US, and beyond. Mostyn is particularly known for his work with DC Thomson publications (including strips for The Beano and similar titles) and his lively, expressive character designs that appeal to young audiences. His artwork in this volume is characteristic of his style: bold, colourful, playful scenes packed with charming details, humour, and clear visual storytelling that make learning fun. He has also authored titles on cartooning techniques. About the Series/Authorial Contribution – Felicia Law: Felicia Law served as Educational and Series Advisor for the Octopus First Colour Library. She has written and contributed to numerous children's educational books, focusing on early learning, language development, and illustrated dictionaries/reference works. Her involvement ensures the book's pedagogical value, combining simple word associations with thematic groupings to reinforce letter sounds, vocabulary, and basic concepts. Book Highlights: Striking rainbow-striped cover boards with a large illustrated panel showing an open dictionary spread (prominently featuring "bB" with baby, ball, balloon, bear, etc.). Endpapers feature colourful framed cartoon portraits (a bandit-style character and a dapper man with tie). Interior: Large, bold letter headings (e.g., aA, bB, cC up through the alphabet) with dozens of labelled illustrations per spread. Examples include aeroplane, alligator, astronaut, baby, baker, bear, butterfly, castle, dinosaur, elephant, and many more everyday and whimsical objects/animals/people. Includes a full alphabet reference at the bottom of many pages. Copyright page confirms: First published 1980 by Octopus Books Limited, produced in Hong Kong, illustrated by David Mostyn. Bright, clean pages with no writing, tears, or significant wear. Colours remain vivid. Tight binding, sharp corners. A truly fine copy that looks nearly as issued. This title is part of a collectible 1980s educational series aimed at preschool and early primary children. It remains a charming example of British children's publishing from the era—perfect for parents, teachers, collectors of illustrated dictionaries, or fans of David Mostyn's work. Scarce in this condition. Condition Details (Fine): Boards: Bright, clean, no fading or rubbing beyond the most minimal shelf wear. Spine: Tight, no lean or damage. Pages: Crisp, unmarked, no foxing or browning. Overall: Exceptional copy—would grade as Fine or better. Ideal for gifting or display. A wonderful piece of educational nostalgia with timeless appeal! Feel free to message with any questions or requests for additional photos.…