I was fortunate enough to find this 1963 hardcover book at a thrift store recently. Really - I almost overlooked it due to the cover. Colorful psychedelic lettering along with several less than attractive hairdo's on some young ladies was a bit of a turnoff. It didn't seem like 'my type', if you will (that song by Bo Diddley is coming to mind right now, by the way). Cover art aside, this textbook has become a new favorite of mine for a couple of reasons.
Over time I have developed a fascination with literature that advises how one should behave in society - especially 1950's books and articles. This handbook touches on every level of home economics; from sewing new fashions to operating vacuum-cleaner accessories. There is no shortage of helpful advice as regards family life, entertaining guests and maintaining popularity in school. I found the 'be a lady at all times' theme ribboned through out the pages both fascinating and humorous.
However, this hardcover offers something that captures my attention more so than advice and instruction. I am going to run the risk of sounding shallow and admit that I like vintage books that have good pictures... Yes, it is true. I value photos over phonetics. Artwork over adjectives. And this bit of literature aimed at young adults satisfied my need for vintage illustrations and photography. Below are images from the revised version of Young Living - The Pre-Hi Homemaking Text by Nanalee Clayton. Enjoy!
Jennie, do you have e-mail that I contact you at? We have some older (mostly 1970's) magazines here at my parents house and would like to have someone who would use them and appreciate them have them and not just throw them out. You can reach me at gemmy@elitevisions.info -- thank you!!
ReplyDeleteOld magazines? Hooray! I am emailing you after I finish typing this comment! Thanks for thinking of me.
ReplyDeleteHey Jenn..saw your post when I was looking up copies of Young Living..thought you might be interested in knowing that Nanalee Clayton (my Aunt Sug) was one of my grandmother's very best friends..they met & were roommates in college. She wrote these books all of her life & would often include pics of family & friends in them..she was an amazing lady. I'm glad you're enjoying her book(s) & all the 50's pics, etc..they're fun aren't they!!
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