The pictorial spelling book : containing an improved method of teaching the alphabet, and likewise spelling and pronunciation, by the use of pictures : interspersed with a variety of useful and interesting reading lessons, illustrated with numerous engravings : to which are added, examples for spelling and defining words, by placing them synonymously : also, rules and examples for spelling derivative words : and examples of prefixes and suffixes, with their definitions : with other useful and interesting matter, being an improvement on the English Spelling Book : the orthography and pronunciation adapted to the best usage / by Rensselaer Bentley, author of the Pictorial primer, American instructer, Derivative expositor, &c.

Inscription on recto of front free end-paper: "Caswall Smith, October 5, AD. 1853"; several inscriptions in the same hand on recto of first front fly-leaf, including "Elizabeth Smith's Book, October 5th 1853" and "Bettie Smith"; inscription in pencil on recto of front free end-paper: "Elizabeth Jane Smith, Jany 6th 1855 [?]"; numerous contemporary pencil inscriptions and other markings on end-papers, fly-leaves, and throughout, including "John D Smith", "E E [...]ith", "Milwood James [?]", "Sallie J Simmons", "Laura J Mamerat [?], "Mary A Smith", "Douglas Monroe Smith", and "Robert; ; "Albemarle" inscribed in pencil on verso of front free end-paper; drawings on front paste-down, verso of first front fly-leaf, and rear free end-paper (one in pencil, others in graphite and/or ochre(?)); inscription in pencil on recto of front free end-paper: "5.00"; pencil inscription on verso of front free end-paper: "W D Chase, Aug 1986".

MSU: Gift of William D. and Helen M. Chase.

In contemporary quarter black leather with green paper over paste-boards.