Fig. 1: This early canvassing book is extremely simple, consisting of the title page, a few sample pages of text, some with illustrations, and blank subscription pages. The only binding choice is shown here, gilt stamped on the front with identifying information and, on the back, a design for the completed book. The publisher is clearly using the front cover to advertise the illustrator of this work, F. O. C. Darley.

Fig. 2: This slim volume consists of the title page and sample illustrations but no sample text, a broadside advertisement, and subscription pages. The publisher has also included a sheet, attached to the front free endpaper, enumerating his rules and justifying the cost of the book. In addition, a blank "Certificate of Agency" and some "testimonials" (the equivalent of modern "blurbs") have also been pasted in the front of the book.

Fig. 3 - Fig. 7: These four copies of the same canvassing book, with minor differences, illustrate the typical canvassing book. The basic components are-

Fig. 3 - Variant bindings, here represented by their spines

Fig. 4 - Title page (in facsimile), including the notice that the work is "Sold by Subscription Only"

Fig. 5 - Sample text and illustrations

Fig. 6 - Testimonials

Fig. 7 - Broadside advertisement and subscription pages