The Spider Sapphire Mystery

"I should say that Nancy Drew has made this spider the most famous one that ever lived on this earth!" — The Spider Sapphire Mystery (1968)

Basic Book Details

• Full Title: The Spider Sapphire Mystery (Nancy Drew Mystery Stories #45)
• Publication Year: 1968 (Yellow Spine Picture Cover edition)
• Copyright Year: 1968
• ISBN: 0448095450
• Total Page Count: 180 pages
• Endpaper Design: White Endpapers
• Cover Artist: Rudy Nappi
• Original Language: English
• Publisher: Grosset & Dunlap

Authorship Information

• Credited Author: Carolyn Keene
• Actual Ghostwriter: Harriet Stratemeyer Adams
• Notable Information: This volume was the last title published during the classic "Tree" back cover era. No 25-chapter version of this title exists as it was originally written in the 20-chapter format.

Story Synopsis

Thrilling and dangerous adventures confront Nancy Drew when she joins an Emerson College safari in East Africa. The mystery starts in River Heights when Floyd Ramsey, a designer of synthetic gems, is accused of stealing a magnificent, nature-formed "Spider Sapphire." Blackmail and sabotage follow Nancy as she prepares for her trip, suggesting a high-stakes conspiracy.

In Kenya, Nancy, Bess, and George navigate the exotic landscapes of Mombasa and the African bush. Facing wild animals and the strange disappearance of a jungle guide, Nancy must locate the authentic sapphire owned by Mr. Shastri Tagore. From decoding cryptic messages to uncovering synthetic gem fraud, she proves her skills are universal.

This 1968 printing is a significant Yellow Spine collectible, representing the final year the back cover featured Nancy looking out from behind a tree. This variant is prized for its White Endpapers. Reference: series-books.com.

Collector's Q&A

How can I tell if this is a 1968 printing versus the 1969 version?
The 1968 printing features the "Tree" back cover. 1969 versions switched to the "Magnifying Glass" design. This specific copy also features the white endpaper variant.

Is this the "Revised" or "Original" text?
Since volume #45 was written in 1968, it was produced in the 20-chapter format. This is the original and only text version ever produced for this title.

Who is GoFigment?
GoFigment is a small business owned and operated by collectors. My commitment to you is simple: I only offer items I would proudly display in my own collection. Every piece is personally sourced, authenticated, and handled with the reverence it deserves.

Physical Condition & Seller Notes

“Please Note: I have multiple copies of each Nancy Drew volume, so the book you receive may not be the exact book pictured. However, I guarantee the quality of the book will be as good as or better than the one shown. The volume number, edition, cover art, and end pages will match exactly what is pictured. I offer a no-questions-asked return policy for your peace of mind.”