These Fragile Outposts

Barbara Blau Chamberlain. First edition, first printing. NAP. New York: The Natural History Press, 1964. Both unclipped dust jacket (in mylar wrapper) and hardcover are in Very Good+ condition. No writing or markings found in the book, 327 pp. 

These Fragile Outposts (The Natural History Press, 1964) is Barbara Blau Chamberlain’s elegant literary homage to the elemental beauty and seasonal rhythms of Cape Cod, Nantucket, and Martha’s Vineyard. More than a travelogue, this first edition blends lyrical prose, personal reflection, and environmental observation—documenting the fragile interplay of nature and community along New England’s storied shores.

A beautifully written and increasingly scarce title, this first printing copy is in Very Good+ condition in its unclipped dust jacket, showing only light edgewear on the spine. A classic for collectors of Cape Codiana, mid-century women’s nonfiction, or books published by The Natural History Press.