Published by Little, Brown and Company, London; 2001. 8vo. 242pp. First edition, first impression. Condition: Fine/Fine.
Bound in original burgundy cloth boards with the title in gilt to the spine. The binding is square and tight, in very smart condition, with no marks to speak of and barely a hint of bumping at the spine ends. Inside, the pages are clean and bright, free from blemishes or wear. There is a neat ownership signature to the ffep.
This beautiful modern first is housed in its original first-issue dust jacket, which is in equally smart condition. It is vibrant and bright, with no signs of damage or wear and just a touch of bumping to the edges.
In all, this is a lovely example of this modern first by Beryl Bainbridge. This witty, comical and touching historical novel is based on the life of Samuel Johnson and his relationship with Henry and Hester "Queeney" Thrale, through the eyes of Queeney Thrale, their sister, the oldest daughter of the Thrale family, the wealthy Southwark brewers, who provided a refuge and second home to Johnson for nearly 20 years. Bainbridge has been shortlisted for the Booker Prize 6 times and has won a number of prestigious awards, including the Whitbread and Guardian Fiction awards, with several of her novels adapted for the big screen, and yet she remains one of the most underappreciated modern English authors. This beautiful book will complement any modern collection.