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1987: Gershwin, by Edward Jablonski
“Gershwin” by Edward Jablonski is a comprehensive biography that delves into the life and work of the legendary American composer, George Gershwin. The book offers readers a deep exploration of Gershwin’s musical genius and his impact on the world of music, providing a detailed account of Gershwin’s upbringing, his rise to fame, and his enduring legacy.
Published by Doubleday in New York in 1987, the present volume is a stated first edition. The book is in almost new condition, with only minor wear at the bottom edge of the dust jacket and a small pencil mark on the pre-titular page. Not price clipped and appears not to have been read, this book is a valuable addition to any music lover’s collection.
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1958 First Edition: The Pageant of England: the Three Edwards, by Thomas B. Costain
First edition of “The Pageant of England: The Three Edwards”, published in 1958 by Doubleday & Company. The blue hardcover volume features lettering on the spine and shows slight wear on the bottom of the spine. While the dust jacket is not present, the book is well bound and in almost new condition. Inside the front cover, there are small stickers with the owner’s name, but no other writing or markings are found within the book.
In this comprehensive historical account, Costain explores the reigns of three English kings: Edward I, Edward II, and Edward III. The book delves into the political, social, and cultural aspects of medieval England, providing readers with a deep understanding of this fascinating period. With meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Costain brings to life the struggles, triumphs, and complexities of these influential monarchs. The Three Edwards is a must-read for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in English history.
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1954: Mary Anne, by Daphne Du Maurier
First American edition of “Mary Anne” by Daphne Du Maurier, published by Doubleday & Company in New York in 1954. This hardcover volume is bound in green cloth and spans 351 pages. The book exhibits minor wear on the cover boards and spine, particularly around the corners where the bottom corners are slightly folded inward. The volume is tightly bound, and free from any writing or markings. The pages have a slight toning due to age, the book is in very good+ condition.
Mary Anne is a historical novel based on Du Maurier’s great-great-grandmother, who was the mistress of Fredrick, Duke of York.
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1945: Daisy Kenyon, by Elizabeth Janeway
Daisy Kenyon, by Elizabeth Janeway, published by Doubleday, Doran and Co in New York, 1945. Presumed first edition. 278 pages.
Olive-green hardcover volume with lettering on spine. No dustjacket. Minor wear and discoloration on cover and spine, some fading to spine. Slight toning to pages. Book is tightly bound with no writing or markings. Very good condition.
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1980: The Globes of Llarum, by Gene Lancour
The Globes of Llarum, by Gene Lancour, is a thought-provoking science fiction novel set in a dystopian future. Cort Devereaux, mercenary available for the highest price, exile from a destroyed planet, finds himself stranded without credit on Llarum, a backwater frontier planet whose unique wealth is based on the gas voided by bioluminescent globes – a colorful product marketed through out the human-settled planets. The story offers readers a gripping tale that raises important questions about the nature of humanity and the potential dangers of unchecked authority.
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1947 First Edition – Adversary in the House: a Biographical Novel by Irving Stone
Adversary in the House is a biographical novel by Irving Stone that was published in 1947. The book tells the story of the life of Claude Debussy, a French composer who is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the world of music. The novel is set in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and follows Debussy’s life from his childhood in Paris to his rise as a prominent composer. The book is written in a narrative style and provides a detailed account of Debussy’s personal life, his relationships, and his struggles as an artist.
Stone’s writing style is engaging and immersive, and he does an excellent job of bringing Debussy’s world to life. The book is well-researched and provides a fascinating insight into the life of one of the most celebrated composers of all time. Adversary in the House is a must-read for anyone interested in music, history, or biographical novels.
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1950 First Edition – Physical Attraction and Your Hormones: A Modern Guide to Beauty, Vitality, and Health by Nina Katherine Lunn
Physical Attraction and Your Hormones by Nina Katherine Lunn serves as a modern guide to beauty, vitality, and health. Published in 1950, the book focuses on the relationship between physical attraction and hormones, providing readers with insights on how to enhance their physical appearance and overall well-being. The book covers a range of topics including skincare, haircare, weight management, and exercise, providing practical tips and advice on how to achieve a healthy and attractive body.
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1952 First Edition: The Silver Chalice, by Thomas Costain
The Silver Chalice, written by Thomas Costain, is a historical fiction novel that takes place in the early days of Christianity. The story follows the journey of a young Greek sculptor named Basil who is forced to flee his home after being falsely accused of a crime. Along the way, he meets a group of Christians who are in possession of a silver chalice that is said to have been used by Jesus during the Last Supper. Basil becomes obsessed with creating a new chalice to replace the old one, and his journey takes him across the Mediterranean and into the heart of Rome.
The novel is a captivating tale of adventure, romance, and faith that explores the early days of Christianity and the struggles faced by its followers. Costain’s vivid descriptions of the ancient world bring the story to life, and his characters are richly drawn and complex.
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1980 First Edition: Who’s On First, by William F. Buckley Jr
Who’s On First is a political thriller written by William F. Buckley, Jr. The novel follows the story of Blackford Oakes, a CIA agent who is tasked with preventing a communist takeover of the Dominican Republic. Oakes must navigate through a web of political intrigue and danger as he tries to uncover the truth behind the communist threat and prevent a potential nuclear war. With a cast of complex characters and a fast-paced plot, Who’s On First is a gripping tale of espionage and international politics.
As a renowned conservative commentator and novelist, Buckley brings his expertise in politics and history to this thrilling novel. Who’s On First is a must-read for fans of political thrillers and anyone interested in the Cold War era.
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1969: The House on the Strand, by Daphne du Maurier (first ed, book club edition)
The House on the Strand by Daphne du Maurier is a thrilling work of fiction that takes readers on a journey through time. The story follows Richard Young, a man who has been given the opportunity to test a new drug that transports him back to the 14th century. As he becomes more and more engrossed in the past, Richard begins to lose touch with the present and the people around him. He finds himself drawn to the lives of the people he encounters in the past and becomes embroiled in their dramas and conflicts. As the drug’s effects become more intense, Richard must struggle to maintain his grip on reality and find a way back to his own time.
This book is a masterful blend of historical fiction and science fiction, with du Maurier’s signature suspenseful style keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The House on the Strand explores themes of time, identity, and the human desire to escape reality.
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1942 First Edition: The Life of Francis Drake, by A. E. W. Mason
The Life of Francis Drake, written by A. E. W. Mason and published in 1942, is a historical account of the life and voyages of the famous English explorer. The book details Drake’s early life as a sailor, his involvement in the slave trade, his circumnavigation of the globe, and his role in defeating the Spanish Armada. Mason’s writing style is engaging and informative, providing readers with a vivid portrait of Drake’s adventures and the historical context in which they occurred. The book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of England, the Age of Exploration, or the life of Francis Drake.
The vintage edition of The Life of Francis Drake is a beautiful volume, with a blue hardcover and intricate green and gilt decoration on the spine. While the book shows some signs of wear due to age, including fading to the pages and wear around the edges and corners, it remains a treasured piece of history.