Books

London: John Murray, 1977. A set of three first edition, first printings published by John Murray between 1977 and 2013. A Time of Gifts is a near fine book lightly spotted in a near fine unclipped wrapper. Inscribed on the front endpaper by the Author 'To/Mary Stewart/in admiration, and with /every kind wish/from/Patrick Leigh Fermor*'/22.9.77/* See p.121 for borrowed plumage.' In addition, on page 121, Fermor has marked the line pertaining to the 'borrowed plumage'. 'Between The Woods and the Water' is a very good book in a very good unclipped wrapper with spine fading. 'The Broken Road' is a fine book in like unclipped wrapper - SIGNED by Colin Thubron and Artemis Cooper. A superb set of signed first editions, the highlight being the inscribed association of volume one. Patrick Leigh Fermor's trilogy, also known as the "Time of Gifts" trilogy, is a series of travel books that chronicle his journey across Europe from 1933 to 1935.…

"The Road" by Cormac McCarthy is a haunting and powerful novel set in a post-apocalyptic world. It follows the journey of a father and his young son as they traverse a desolate landscape, struggling to survive amidst the remnants of a collapsed civilization. The pair travel along a road, pushing a shopping cart filled with their few possessions, constantly in search of food and safety. They encounter various challenges, including harsh weather, scarcity of resources, and the threat of hostile survivors. The novel is characterized by its stark and minimalist prose, which reflects the bleakness of the world the characters inhabit. Despite the grim setting, the story is deeply moving, exploring themes of love, hope, and the enduring bond between parent and child. The father's determination to protect his son and maintain a sense of morality in the face of overwhelming despair serves as the emotional core of the narrative. "The Road" is a profound meditation on the human condition, resilience, and the lengths to which one will go to preserve what little humanity remains. McCarthy's masterful storytelling and vivid imagery create a compelling and unforgettable reading experience that leaves a lasting impact on its readers.