Books

New York: Harcourt, Brace and Company, 1950. First Edition. The author's first novel, written between 1947-48 in Queens where he lived with his mother and father. The present copies belonged to poet Jackson Mac Low. Laid into the advance copy is a TLS from the publishers addressed to "Miss Maclow" (the painter Iris Lezak, who Mac Low would later marry), dated two months prior to publication with contents somewhat prophetic in nature: "Dear Miss Maclow: Here is your preview of THE TOWN AND THE CITY, which we shall publish on March 2. This is a big, new novel by John Kerouac--a name you have never before heard--one of the most exciting new talents to come to American readers since Thomas Wolfe." A superb, early letter, presumably sent to Mac Low for a favorable review, and a wonderful association between two of the 20th century's prominent poets. Provenance: Through the trade, from the estate of Jackson Mac Low. Charters A1a. First Printing, one of 10,500 copies. Octavo; red cloth,…

The Town and the City was Jack Kerouac's debut novel, published in 1950. It presents a coming-of-age story of a young man who experiences the dichotomy between provincial American life and the attraction of the city. Kerouac's alter ego is Peter Martin. The novel is heavily influenced by the works of Thomas Wolfe and is based on Kerouac's own early life.

Look for the Harcourt Brace and Company logo as well as the published date on the copyright page of the book, and check for statements of 'First Edition'.