Nikos Kazantzakis (adapt.), Waldemar Bonsels - Μάγια η Μέλισσα / The Adventures of Maya the Bee - First Greek Edition - 1931

Rare and collectible first Greek edition of Μάγια η Μέλισσα (The Adventures of Maya the Bee), adapted by Nikos Kazantzakis from the celebrated work of Waldemar Bonsels, and published in Athens by Eleftheroudakis in 1931.

This early adaptation represents a lesser-known but important aspect of Kazantzakis’ literary activity, reflecting his engagement with European literature and educational narratives during the interwar period. Issued in original softcover format, the book predates his major international successes and is considered a scarce pre-war imprint.

Bibliographic Details

Author: Nikos Kazantzakis (adaptation), Waldemar Bonsels

Title: Μάγια η Μέλισσα (The Adventures of Maya the Bee)

Publisher: Eleftheroudakis, Athens

Year: 1931

Edition: First Greek Edition

Language: Greek

Pages: 168

Dimensions: 21 cm × 15.5 cm

Binding: Original hardcover

Provenance: Ex libris of the Melissinos family

Condition

Very good vintage condition for its age. Light, expected signs of handling. Please refer to the photographs for a detailed assessment.

About Nikos Kazantzakis

Nikos Kazantzakis (1883–1957) is one of the most important figures in modern Greek literature and the most widely translated Greek author worldwide. Best known for works such as Zorba the Greek and Christ Recrucified, he was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature nine times. His literary production spans novels, poetry, drama, philosophy, translations, and adaptations, making early and lesser-known works particularly sought after by collectors.

Collectibility

Scarce pre-war first edition

Early adaptation by Kazantzakis

Original softcover format

Increasing interest in secondary and juvenile works by major modernist authors

A fine opportunity to acquire an early and uncommon Kazantzakis imprint.