SUTCLIFF, Rosemary (author). Charles KEEPING (illustrator). Dawn Wind. London Oxford University Press. 1961

8vo.; publisher’s magenta cloth lettered in gilt to spine, in pictorial dustwrapper with a design by Keeping which wraps around to spine; pp. [vi] + 241; with striking pictorial chapter-headings throughout in black and white by Keeping; a fine and exceptional copy, without ownership marks, preserved in an immaculate, unclipped, dustwrapper (12s 6d).

First edition.  An historical tale set in 5th century Britain, following the last battle of Aquae Sulis (Bath), and the invasion by the Anglo-Saxons.  A fourteen year old boy, Owain, survives the onslaught, although his family are killed, and takes a route northwards to escape the invaders.  The story follows his trials and joys over the following twelve years as he becomes aware that the time of darkness for his homeland is coming to an end.