Modern Literature
London, John Wright, [1929].
First edition, first impression. 8vo. Original red cloth. Dust-jacket, priced 7/6.
A nice example of this enigmatic work.
Modern Literature
London, Methuen, 1930.
First edition. 8vo. Original brown cloth. Dust-jacket, priced 7/6.
'An unusual book which breaks new ground in the triangle complication' (jacket blurb).
Modern Literature
London, John Lane The Bodley Head, 1929.
First edition, first impression. 8vo. Original red cloth.
Forester's personal experiences navigating inland waterways aboard the narrowboat "Annie Marble." Through a blend of humor and observation, Forester details the challenges and pleasures of canal life.
Modern Literature
London, The Women's Press, 1986.
First UK hardback edition, first impression. 8vo. Original boards. Dust-jacket, price-clipped.
Set in the early 20th-century American South, The Color Purple follows the life of Celie, an African American woman who faces severe abuse and oppression. Through a series of letters, Celie narrates her journey from a life of hardship to one of self-discovery, empowerment, and independence, highlighting themes of racism, sexism, and the transformative power of love and friendship.
![Alternative view of Belloc Lowndes (Mrs [Marie]) Duchess Laura.](https://lycanthiabooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/86691_2-300x400.jpg)
Modern Literature
Certain Days of Her Life
London & Melbourne, Ward, Lock & Co., 1929.
First edition, first impression. Signed presentation copy from the author, with autograph note signed. 8vo. Original blue cloth. Dust-jacket, priced 7/6.
Signed presentation copy from the author to Mr & Mrs Clarence Winchester, with related note from the author loosely inserted, expressing her enthusiasm for meeting them imminently.
Modern Literature
London, Chatto & Windus, 1961.
First edition, first impression. 8vo. Original brown boards. Dust-jacket, priced 18s.
A satirical novel centred on Martin Lynch-Gibbon, a 41-year-old wine merchant who believes he can maintain both his marriage to his wife, Antonia, and an affair with his younger mistress, Georgie. The novel was adapted into a successful stage play in 1963 and later into a film in 1970, starring Claire Bloom, Lee Remick, Richard Attenborough and Ian Holm.
Modern Literature
New York, Jonathan Cape & Harrison Smith, 1930.
First edition, first printing. 8vo. Original red cloth with gilt decoration to spine and patterned endpapers. Dust-jacket, priced $2.00.
Excellent jacket artwork on this uncommon NY Jonathan Cape printing.
Modern Literature
London, Geoffrey Bles, 1936.
First edition. 8vo. Original green cloth. Dust-jacket,
Primarily set in a suburban terrace near Clapham Common, focusing on the lives of its residents, with occasional deviations via Mayfair and Paris.
Modern Literature
London, Eyre & Spottiswoode, 1968.
First edition, first impression. Inscribed presentation copy from the author. 8vo. Original dark brown boards. Dust-jacket, priced 25s.
Inscribed by the author, 'This by way of a consolation prize, and in memory of enthusiasm, wet trousers and one pike. Best wishes, Willie McIlvanney, 11th September, 1968 (R.I.P.)'
Modern Literature
London, Hutchinson, 1965.
First UK edition, first impression. Signed presentation copy from the author. 8vo. Original black boards. Dust-jacket, priced 21s.
An attractive, inscribed first UK edition of the author's multivoiced narrative about Franklin Carey, a man, much like his creator, who inhabits the border regions between the cultures of Europe and America.
Tom Maschler (1933–2020) was a highly influential figure in British publishing, renowned in particular for his tenure as literary director at Jonathan Cape. He was instrumental in shaping modern publishing, discovering and championing some of the most iconic authors of the 20th century, including Ian McEwan, Martin Amis and Salman Rushdie. Maschler was also a key force behind the creation of the Booker Prize, which became one of the most prestigious literary awards globally. Known for his keen editorial eye and risk-taking, he played a pivotal role in establishing literary trends and elevating authors who would go on to define their eras.
Modern Literature
London, Jonathan Cape, 1970.
First edition, first impression. Inscribed presentation copy from the author with original 'elephant' doodle. 8vo. Original black boards. Dust-jacket, priced £1.25,
Speculative black comedy by poet, novelist & playwright Mitchell, nominated, semi-seriously, as Britain's "Shadow Poet Laureate" in 2002.
Tom Maschler (1933–2020) was a highly influential figure in British publishing, renowned in particular for his tenure as literary director at Jonathan Cape. He was instrumental in shaping modern publishing, discovering and championing some of the most iconic authors of the 20th century, including Ian McEwan, Martin Amis and Salman Rushdie. Maschler was also a key force behind the creation of the Booker Prize, which became one of the most prestigious literary awards globally. Known for his keen editorial eye and risk-taking, he played a pivotal role in establishing literary trends and elevating authors who would go on to define their eras.
Modern Literature
A Novel
Brighton, The Harvester Press, 1987.
First edition, first impression. Inscribed presentation copy from the author. 8vo. Original cloth. Dust-jacket.
A novel set in 1891, following Count Friedryk Baa MindeBerg, a middle-aged Scandinavian biologist renowned for his expertise in toads, marsupials and African wildlife. The novel delves into themes of memory, remorse and the inescapable nature of personal history.
Modern Literature
London, Jonathan Cape, 1983.
First edition, first impression. Inscribed presentation copy from the author. 8vo. Original boards. Dust-jacket, priced £7.95.
A metaphysical tale set in the Middle Ages, recounting Pilgermann's pilgrimage, filled with surreal encounters, such as speaking animals, anthropomorphic Death as a recurring figure and symbolic visions.
Tom Maschler (1933–2020) was a highly influential figure in British publishing, renowned in particular for his tenure as literary director at Jonathan Cape. He was instrumental in shaping modern publishing, discovering and championing some of the most iconic authors of the 20th century, including Ian McEwan, Martin Amis and Salman Rushdie. Maschler was also a key force behind the creation of the Booker Prize, which became one of the most prestigious literary awards globally. Known for his keen editorial eye and risk-taking, he played a pivotal role in establishing literary trends and elevating authors who would go on to define their eras.
Modern Literature
Stories, a Libretto, Essays and Sketches
London, Jonathan Cape, 1992.
First edition, first impression. Inscribed presentation copy from the author. 8vo. Original boards. Dust-jacket, priced £14.99.
An attractive inscribed first edition of this intriguing collection, including a operatic libretto reimagining 'King Kong'.
Tom Maschler (1933–2020) was a highly influential figure in British publishing, renowned in particular for his tenure as literary director at Jonathan Cape. He was instrumental in shaping modern publishing, discovering and championing some of the most iconic authors of the 20th century, including Ian McEwan, Martin Amis and Salman Rushdie. Maschler was also a key force behind the creation of the Booker Prize, which became one of the most prestigious literary awards globally. Known for his keen editorial eye and risk-taking, he played a pivotal role in establishing literary trends and elevating authors who would go on to define their eras.
Modern Literature
London, Jonathan Cape, 1982.
First edition, first impression. Inscribed presentation copy from the author. 8vo. Original boards. Dust-jacket, priced £7.95.
A collection of essays showcasing James's wit and range as a cultural critic.
Tom Maschler (1933–2020) was a highly influential figure in British publishing, renowned in particular for his tenure as literary director at Jonathan Cape. He was instrumental in shaping modern publishing, discovering and championing some of the most iconic authors of the 20th century, including Ian McEwan, Martin Amis and Salman Rushdie. Maschler was also a key force behind the creation of the Booker Prize, which became one of the most prestigious literary awards globally. Known for his keen editorial eye and risk-taking, he played a pivotal role in establishing literary trends and elevating authors who would go on to define their eras.
Modern Literature
New York, Random House, 1952.
First edition, first printing. 8vo. Original pictorial cloth. Dust-jacket, priced $3.50.
A dystopian science fiction novel set in a future society practicing "voluntary amputations" as a route to pacifism, considered one of the earliest examples of cybernetic speculation in literature.
Modern Literature
London, Jonathan Cape, 1987.First edition, first impression. Author's dedication copy, with signed inscripton from the author to front free endpaper and the printed dedication to the publisher Tom Maschler on copyright page. 8vo. Original boards. Dust-jacket, priced £10.95.First edition of James's second novel, published in 1987 by Jonathan Cape, inscribed to his publisher Tom Maschler, who is also named in the printed dedication on the verso of the title-page. The narrative centres on Joel Court, an astronomer who finds himself in personal and professional turmoil.Tom Maschler (1933–2020) was a highly influential figure in British publishing, renowned in particular for his tenure as literary director at Jonathan Cape. He was instrumental in shaping modern publishing, discovering and championing some of the most iconic authors of the 20th century, including Ian McEwan, Martin Amis and Salman Rushdie. Maschler was also a key force behind the creation of the Booker Prize, which became one of the most prestigious literary awards globally. Known for his keen editorial eye and risk-taking, he played a pivotal role in establishing literary trends and elevating authors who would go on to define their eras.
Modern Literature
London, Peter Owen, 1959.
First UK edition, first impression. 8vo. Original grey boards. Dust-jacket, priced 15s.
An autobiographical novel by Anaïs Nin, first published in 1950. It is part of her 'Cities of the Interior' series and draws from her personal experiences, particularly her tumultuous relationship with Peruvian poet and bohemian Gonzalo Moré in the late 1930s.
Modern Literature
New York, Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 1979.
First US edition, first printing. Signed presentation copy from the author to Tom [Maschler]. 8vo. Original blue cloth. Dust-jacket, priced $10.95.
The Mangan Inheritance follows a protagonist who, after an unexpected inheritance, travels to Ireland to uncover possible familial links to a Romantic poet, delving into personal and historical mystery.
Tom Maschler (1933–2020) was a highly influential figure in British publishing, renowned in particular for his tenure as literary director at Jonathan Cape. He was instrumental in shaping modern publishing, discovering and championing some of the most iconic authors of the 20th century, including Ian McEwan, Martin Amis and Salman Rushdie. Maschler was also a key force behind the creation of the Booker Prize, which became one of the most prestigious literary awards globally. Known for his keen editorial eye and risk-taking, he played a pivotal role in establishing literary trends and elevating authors who would go on to define their eras.
Modern Literature
London, W.H. Allen, 1957.
First edition, first impression. Signed presentation copy from the author. 8vo. Original olive cloth. Dust-jacket, priced 12s6d.
The debut novel by British playwright, poet and writer Michael Hastings, inscribed 'To the most lifelong of friends Michael H'. The author would later gain renown for his play Tom & Viv, based on the real lives of T.S. Eliot and his wife Vivienne Haigh-Wood Eliot.
Tom Maschler (1933–2020) was a highly influential figure in British publishing, renowned in particular for his tenure as literary director at Jonathan Cape. He was instrumental in shaping modern publishing, discovering and championing some of the most iconic authors of the 20th century, including Ian McEwan, Martin Amis and Salman Rushdie. Maschler was also a key force behind the creation of the Booker Prize, which became one of the most prestigious literary awards globally. Known for his keen editorial eye and risk-taking, he played a pivotal role in establishing literary trends and elevating authors who would go on to define their eras.
Modern Literature
London, Jonathan Cape, 1989.
First edition, first impression. Inscribed presentation copy from the author to publisher Tom Maschler. 8vo. Original red boards. Dust-jacket, priced £12.95.
A fantasy novel set in the fictional land of Brychmachrye, also the setting for de Haan's earlier work, A Mirror for Princes. The narrative begins with a touring theatre company encountering a mysterious young man named Caryllac, and follows his ambitions and rise to fame.
Tom Maschler (1933–2020) was a highly influential figure in British publishing, renowned in particular for his tenure as literary director at Jonathan Cape. He was instrumental in shaping modern publishing, discovering and championing some of the most iconic authors of the 20th century, including Ian McEwan, Martin Amis and Salman Rushdie. Maschler was also a key force behind the creation of the Booker Prize, which became one of the most prestigious literary awards globally. Known for his keen editorial eye and risk-taking, he played a pivotal role in establishing literary trends and elevating authors who would go on to define their eras.
Modern Literature
London, Heinemann, 1957.
First edition, first impression. 8vo. Original red cloth. Dust-jacket, priced 15s.
The fourth volume in Powell's series The Music of Time, exploring the lives of upper-class British society members in the interwar period.
Modern Literature
London, Holden & Hardingham, n.d..
Second edition. 8vo. Original blue cloth lettered in gilt. Dust-jacket, priced 6/-.
Classic romantic fiction, in uncommon dust-jacket.
Modern Literature
London, Jarrolds, [1930].
First edition, first impression. 8vo. Original cloth. Dust-jacket, priced 7/6.
A story of working-class woman by the popular author and travel writer, Ethel Mannin.
Modern Literature
Translated by Alice Grant Rosman
London & New York, Putnam, 1932.
First UK edition. 8vo. Original black cloth. Dust-jacket, priced 7/6.
A heartwarming tale about the life of a cat named Rroû, emphasising themes of independence and belonging.
Modern Literature
London, Herbert Jenkins, 1932.
First edition, first impression. 8vo. Original orange cloth ruled and lettered in black. Dust-jacket, priced 7/6.
Classic Jenkins period-comedy, in attractive Simmonds jacket.
Modern Literature
London & Glasgow, W. Collins Sons, 1929.
First edition, first impression. 8vo. Original red cloth. Dust-jacket, priced 7/6.
A romantic thriller with a dark side, involving millionaires, a Spanish aristocrat and a voyage to South America. Attractive jacket artwork.
Modern Literature
A novel
London, Constable, [1949].
First edition, first impression. 8vo. Original cloth. Dust-jacket, price-clipped.
Guy McCrone was a Scottish author, renowned for his novels depicting Glasgow society in the early 20th century.
Modern Literature
Translated by Stuart Hood
London, John Lehmann, 1949.
First UK edition. 8vo. Original blue cloth spine inset with silver and red. Dust-jacket, priced 9s6d.
Originally titled Tempo di uccidere, this novel is set in Ethiopia during Italy's 1930s invasion, exploring an Italian officer's moral descent. It won Italy's prestigious Strega Prize in 1947.
Modern Literature
A Revised Version
London, Jonathan Cape, 1977.
Revised edition, first impression. Signed presentation copy from the author. 8vo. Original black boards lettered in gilt to spine. Dust-jacket.
The revised edition of Fowles' masterpiece, a psychological novel about a young Englishman entangled in the manipulations of a mysterious Greek island recluse. Inscribed from the author.
Modern Literature
London, Alfred A. Knopf, 1929.
First UK edition, first impression. 8vo. Original brown cloth. Dust-jacket, priced 7/6.
A semi-autobiographical account depicting the harsh life of Irish-American immigrants. The author encapsulates the 'rags to riches' American dream, from growing up log-shack poor in small-town Ohio, to being a hobo before settling in Hollywood where he worked for Charlie Chaplin and later became one of the first reporters to cover 'Tinsel Town'.
Modern Literature
London, Macgibbon & Kee, 1959.
First edition, first impression. 8vo. Original black boards. Dust-jacket, priced 21s.
An important work by renowned British historian Eric Hobsbawm, here writing under the pseudonym "Francis Newton" (a tribute to jazz trumpeter Frankie Newton). The book offers a comprehensive analysis of jazz's evolution, cultural significance and its role as a medium of protest.
Modern Literature
London, Frederick Muller, 1958.
First UK edition. 8vo. Original blue boards. Dust-jacket, priced 15/-.
A novel that portrays the life of Johnny Preston, a 24-year-old film star, through interviews with those who knew him. The character is widely considered to be modelled after James Dean, reflecting his enigmatic persona and untimely death. The US edition's jacket featured artwork by Warhol; however, this UK edition featured in the publicity shoot for David Bowie's Diamond Dogs album (1974).
Modern Literature
Edinburgh & London, William Blackwood, 1907.
First edition, first impression. 8vo. Original dark green cloth.
Considered Forster's most personal novel, this story explores themes of self-fulfilment and social expectations, following protagonist Rickie Elliot's struggles.
Modern Literature
London, Thornton Butterworth, 1925.
First edition, first impression. 8vo. Original grey cloth. Dust-jacket, priced 7/6.
"A vigorous story of crime and social service in East London." (jacket blurb)
Modern Literature
In twenty-two magnificent stories...
London, Jonathan Cape, 1943.
First edition. 8vo. Original yellow cloth. Dust-jacket, priced 7s6d.
A modern take on the classic characters from pantomime.
Modern Literature
London, Jonathan Cape, 1936.
First UK edition. 8vo. Original cloth. Dust-jacket, price-clipped.
The third of Nebel's novels, the basis of the American romantic comedy film directed by Norman Taurog and starring Don Ameche and Ann Sothern.
Modern Literature
A Play in Three Acts
London, Jonathan Cape, 1936.
First edition thus. 8vo. Original yellow cloth. Dust-jacket, priced 3s6d.
The only extant play by the great Irish novelist, Exiles is of interest both for its autobiographical content and for formal reasons.
Modern Literature
and six more
London, Jonathan Cape, 1977.
First edition, first impression. 8vo. Original dark blue boards. Dust-jacket, priced £3.50.
A clever mix of fact and fiction, this volume also includes the tale of a boy who can understand animals, the magical true story of Mildenhall treasure, and Roald Dahl's own account of how he became a writer (with a wealth of tips for aspiring authors). The title tale was made into a film starring Benedict Cumberbatch.
Modern Literature
Fielding (Gabriel, pseud. Alan Gabriel Barnsley) The Birthday King
London, Hutchinson, 1962.
First edition, first impression, signed presentation copy from the author. Some loose related ephemera. 8vo. Original cloth. Dust-jacket, priced 21s.
Signed by the author title-page, with autograph gift inscription on behalf of himself and his wife to front free endpaper.
"In 1963 he was awarded the W.H. Smith Award for The Birthday King, and for "the most outstanding contribution to English Literature over a two-year period" (1962–1963). In 1964 he was awarded the Gold Medal of the St. Thomas More Association for The Birthday King. this recognition encouraged him to keep writing while still practicing medicine." (wikipedia)
Modern Literature
Two African Journals
London, The Bodley Head, 1961.
First edition, first impression. 8vo. Original cloth-backed boards. Dust-jacket, publisher's £2.50 price-sticker to inside flap.
Two African notebooks recording Greene's travels in 1959, and his stay at the Yonda leper colony in the jungle which inspired the story for A Burnt-Out Case. Convoy to West Africa describes his voyage in a cargo boat during WW2, from Liverpool to Freetown, Sierra Leone, the setting for The Heart of the Matter.
Modern Literature
London, John Lehmann, 1951.
First edition, first impression. 8vo. Original brown cloth. Dust-jacket, priced 10s6d.
The second novel by the author of the novella Cheerful Weather for the Wedding.