The Wonder Book of Aircraft
Illustrated Aviation Book 1927 Ward, Lock & Co

The Wonder Book of Aircraft

Illustrated Aviation Book | 1927 | Ward, Lock & Co.

-

There is something quietly magical about books like this — they capture a moment when the world was changing, when flight was still filled with awe, optimism, and promise.

-

The Wonder Book of Aircraft, published in 1927, is a beautifully illustrated inter-war volume that explores the early days of aviation at a time when aeroplanes were transforming travel, communication, and warfare. Produced by the respected British publisher Ward, Lock & Co., this book was designed to educate, inspire, and spark the imagination — particularly of young readers growing up in an age where flight felt almost miraculous.

---

What’s Inside

This substantial hardback is packed with fascinating content, including:

Early aeroplanes and pioneering aircraft designs

Commercial air travel and Imperial air routes

Military aviation and Britain’s air defence

Parachutes, aerial photography, and airships

Wireless communication in aircraft

Record-breaking flights and predictions for the future of aviation

-

The writing is engaging and accessible, balancing technical explanation with storytelling — very much in the spirit of the much-loved Wonder Book series.

---

Illustrations & Visual Appeal

12 colour plates

Approximately 50 black-and-white illustrations

Period photographs, diagrams, and atmospheric artwork

Delightful illustrated endpapers featuring lively cartoon scenes, typical of the era

-

These illustrations are a real highlight, making this book as decorative as it is informative — perfect for display as well as reading.

---

Binding & Condition

Original illustrated cloth boards with striking aviation cover art

Green cloth spine with printed title

Decorative rear board design

-

Condition:

General age-related wear to edges and corners

Rubbing to the spine consistent with age

Pages clean and well-bound with light toning

Binding remains solid and usable

-

The book retains its original Sunday School prize label, dated 1929, awarded for good attendance — a charming and entirely period-appropriate detail that adds provenance and human history rather than detracting.

---

Historical Context

-

Published between the two World Wars, this book reflects a time when aviation symbolised modernity, progress, and national pride. Wireless navigation, commercial airliners, and long-distance flights were still astonishing developments, and this volume captures that sense of wonder beautifully.

-

It is both a historical document and a nostalgic glimpse into how people once imagined the future of flight.

---

Ideal For

Aviation and RAF enthusiasts

Collectors of inter-war illustrated books

Vintage and antique book lovers

Display styling for studies, libraries, and offices

Thoughtful, meaningful gifts

---

Details

Title: The Wonder Book of Aircraft

Publisher: Ward, Lock & Co., London & Melbourne

Date: 1927

Format: Hardback

Illustrations: 12 colour plates, approx. 50 illustrations

---

Price

£45 — sensibly priced for an original 1927 illustrated aviation book in sound, display-worthy condition, with strong visual appeal and historical interest.