Books

New York: Charles Scribner's Sons, 1935. First Edition, First Printing. Cloth. Very good/very good. First edition, first printing of Green Hills of Africa by Ernest Hemingway, inscribed to F. Trubee Davison, the president of the American Museum of Natural History.. Octavo, [viii], 294, [2]. Publisher's green cloth, facsimile signature in gilt on front cover. Title in gilt on spine. The first printing, with "Scribner's A" on copyright page. Sunning to spine, wear to gilt band. Solid text block, internally clean. In the publisher's first edition dust jacket, $2.75 retail price on front flap, shallow chipping along edges of spine, sunning to spine, light spotting to verso, a very good example. This jacket is variant B, identical to Jacket A, except for the alignment of the green print on the rear panel. (Grissom A.13.1.a) (Hanneman A.13.a) Housed in custom black leather clamshell, title in gilt over blue label on spine, internally lined with tan cloth. This copy is inscribed on the…

Ernest Hemingway’s "Green Hills of Africa" offers readers a glimpse into the renowned author's African safari, blending adventure, reflection, and the natural beauty of East Africa. Published in 1935, this non-fiction work chronicles Hemingway's month-long hunting expedition in December 1933, revealing a side of the writer driven by his passion for the wild and his relentless pursuit of big game. The heart of "Green Hills of Africa" lies in Hemingway's detailed accounts of hunting. With a keen eye for detail and an unfiltered narrative style, Hemingway immerses readers in the thrill of tracking and hunting kudu, rhinoceros, and lions. His prose, as always, is straightforward yet rich with vivid imagery, bringing the African landscape to life in a way that only Hemingway can. Beyond the hunt, Hemingway's deep appreciation for nature shines through his descriptions of the African plains and hills. The grandeur of the landscape and the diversity of its wildlife are portrayed with a sense of awe and reverence, making the book as much about the environment as it is about the adventure. Interwoven with the excitement of the hunt are Hemingway's reflections on writing and literature. He delves into his own creative process and discusses the works of other authors, offering insights into his literary philosophy. These reflections provide a fascinating contrast to the rugged outdoor narrative, revealing Hemingway’s intellectual side and his contemplations on the art of storytelling. Hemingway's encounters with the local people, including his guides and trackers, add another layer to the narrative. Through these interactions, he provides a glimpse into the cultural dynamics of colonial Africa, enriching the reader’s understanding of the time and place. "Green Hills of Africa" is divided into four parts, each exploring different facets of the safari experience. The journey begins with "Pursuit and Conversation," setting the scene and introducing the characters. "Pursuit Remembered" recounts the hunting experiences and the challenges faced. In "Pursuit and Failure," Hemingway reflects on the disappointments and setbacks, offering a candid look at the emotional and psychological aspects of the hunt. The final part, "Pursuit as Happiness," captures the moments of success and fulfillment, celebrating the joy found in the adventure. This book stands out as a unique piece in Hemingway's body of work, blending travel writing, memoir, and philosophical reflection. It provides an intimate glimpse into Hemingway's life, showcasing his love for adventure and the natural world. "Green Hills of Africa" remains a testament to Hemingway's descriptive power and his ability to explore complex themes through the lens of personal experience.

Identifying a first edition of 'Green Hills of Africa' might involve looking for the publisher's name, Charles Scribner's Sons, along with the date of 1935 on the copyright page. Additionally, specific design or typographic features relevant to the first edition might be used for identification.