first edition
1957 · New York
by Kerouac, Jack
New York: Viking, 1957. First edition. Near fine in near fine jacket with just a touch of restoration.. First printing, a review copy, of Kerouac's landmark novel, and a defining work of the Beat Generation - in exceptional condition. Kerouac's novel of Sal Paradise and Dean Moriarty (literary stand-ins for the author and Neal Cassady) traveling across the United States was famously written in a drug-fueled mania on a long scroll of paper and became a surprise bestseller. It quickly went through multiple printings and made Kerouac not only a celebrity (famously appearing on the Steve Allen Show), but an unwilling spokesman for a movement. His style - both literary and personal - came to influence postwar youth culture, from rock-and-roll to Marlon Brando. One of the nicest copies of this classic we've handled, and the first review copy. A stunning example. 8" x 5.25" Original black cloth titled in white. In original unclipped ($3.95) color pictorial jacket designed by Bill English. 310 pages. Original typed Viking review slip loosely laid in, noting publication date of "September 5, 1957." Front hinge almost imperceptibly strengthened. Some minor professional touch-up to the color of the jacket. Else remarkably bright, sharp, crisp, and clean. Presents fine.
(Inventory #: 47591)