Books

First edition, first impression, the author's copy, signed by Churchill on the half-title and by Marsh on the front free endpaper, together with two autograph letters signed from Marsh establishing provenance. Marsh writes, on 27 January 1994: "In 1955 I wrote this book - 'The Young Winston Churchill'. I sent a copy to Churchill soon after publication and he kindly signed it for me. This first edition of the book, now up for auction, is my own personal copy which I have signed". The occasion was Marsh selling the book at Sotheby's (another letter from Marsh to the auctioneer Peter Selley, regarding the sale of the book, is included). He goes on to include a facsimile of a letter from Churchill telling Marsh he read the book "with interest". He writes that the book sold 40,000 copies in the UK and many more when selected by US book clubs to tie in with the film Young Winston (1972), which was based on the book. "In my view the first twenty-six years of Sir Winston's life make one of the greatest adventure stories of all time and as such I have endeavoured to present it so that the character-building that took place during this period shall never be forgotten by the younger generation" (author's note). Provenance: the collection of Steve Forbes, chairman of Forbes Magazine, and presidential candidate in the 1996 and 2000 US elections; his book label is loosely inserted. Octavo. Original blue cloth, spine lettered in gilt. With dust jacket; 2 autograph letters 1 facsimile loosely inserted (see note). Unclipped jacket a little worn, creased, and soiled; a fine copy in very good jacket.

The Young Winston Churchill by John Marsh provides an in-depth look into the formative years of one of Britain's most iconic figures. This biography details the events and influences that shaped Churchill's character and prepared him to lead the nation during its darkest hours.