OP: A Guide to Pink Elephants (2 vols)

Richards Rosen Assoc., New York, 1952, 1957. Comb bound. Fine.

Prolific cookbook author Ruth Chier Rosen, in partnership with her publisher husband Richard, self-published a number of “Handy Aid Books” for kitchen use. Their 1952 cocktail book, A Guide to Pink Elephants, was inspired by Ruth’s own invention, the “bartender box,” which she designed as a defense against her husband’s accusation that women are poor cocktail makers.

Attributing the problem to lack of resources—namely a handy book of recipes—rather than an inherent ineptitude, Rosen compiled instructions for dozens of common cocktails, including the appropriate glassware. The husband and wife team published the recipes a year later in the form of a compact, handily tabbed book with the plastic comb binding along the bottom so that it opens like a Rolodex (look it up, kids).

The first volume was such a success, selling some 3 million copies, that a second volume appeared in 1957. Both books include sections on brandies, cordials, gin, party drinks, canapes, rum, scotch, vodka, whiskey, and wine. Between the two, you’ll be well-versed in both the classic and the esoteric—and even pick up some advice on how to best stock a wine cellar (1934 was a good year for just about anything, but avoid a 1927 Bordeaux).

A small disclaimer: While the subtitle boasts “200 most requested mixed drinks on alcohol resistant cards,” there are in fact slightly fewer—but nearly 400 cocktails should still get you in the realm of seeing pink elephants.

We are pleased to offer both volumes in Fine condition, including their original pink boxes. Scarce in this condition and rarely seen offered together.