Books

1935. First Edition. FORESTER, C.S. The African Queen. Boston: Little, Brown, 1935. Octavo, original beige and green cloth, original dust jacket. $5000.First American edition of Forester's beloved African adventure, basis for John Huston's 1951 Oscar-winning film starring Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn, in scarce dust jacket.""I recommend Forester to every literate I know,"" Hemingway once said. Born Cecil Smith in Egypt, C.S. Forester grew up in England to become one of its most popular authors with his adventures of Horatio Hornblower and, in The African Queen, an unlikely romance between a Cockney boat pilot and a headstrong missionary that produced one of Hollywood's most legendary films, starring Katharine Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart in his only Oscar-winning role. ""The cornerstone item in any serious Forester collection"" (Smiley, 39). Published the same year in England with a ""happier, if not entirely satisfying ending,"" this ""American first edition…

"African Queen" by C.S. Forester is an enthralling narrative set against the backdrop of World War I in Africa. The story revolves around two contrasting characters, Rose Sayer and Charlie Allnutt. Rose is a prim and devout missionary mourning the loss of her brother and trying to survive amidst the war's chaos. Charlie, on the other hand, is a rough, practical, and somewhat coarse boat captain. When Rose's missionary station is destroyed by German soldiers, she and Charlie, faced with the threat of German occupation, decide to escape. They hatch a daring plan to navigate the treacherous Ulanga River aboard Charlie's dilapidated boat, the African Queen, aiming to strike a blow against the Germans by sinking a German warship. As they embark on this perilous journey down the river, the unlikely duo faces a myriad of challenges—navigating dangerous rapids, battling nature's hazards, and dealing with their conflicting personalities. Initially at odds, Rose and Charlie gradually develop a deep mutual respect and camaraderie. Their journey becomes a testament to human resilience, determination, and the unexpected bonds that can form amidst adversity. Throughout their expedition, they encounter various trials that test their endurance and resourcefulness. From evading enemy forces to surviving the harsh conditions of the river, their adventure is fraught with danger and unexpected turns. Despite their differences, Rose and Charlie's partnership evolves into a tale of courage, love, and the triumph of the human spirit. Forester's storytelling paints a vivid picture of the African landscape, immersing readers in the beauty and perils of the wild, untamed river. The novel expertly combines elements of adventure, romance, and wartime drama, offering a gripping narrative that captures the essence of bravery in the face of adversity. As their journey progresses, Rose and Charlie's characters undergo significant development, transforming from individuals with starkly contrasting personalities into a formidable team, united by a common purpose. Their experiences bring to light the strength of the human will and the unexpected connections that can arise amid turbulent times. "African Queen" is a timeless classic that explores themes of resilience, survival, and the transformative power of human relationships, leaving readers captivated by its riveting storytelling and unforgettable characters.

To determine if a copy of 'The African Queen' is a first edition, one should look for the publisher's name 'Little, Brown and Company' on the title page, along with the date 1935 and no subsequent printings mentioned.