Notes of a Native Son.

BALDWIN, James.

Item Number: 118054

Boston: Beacon Press, 1959.

First paperback edition of Baldwin’s collection of essays exploring the intricacies of racial, sexual, and class distinctions in Western society. Octavo, original illustrated wrappers. Association copy, inscribed by James Baldwin to fellow 20th century American novelist James Jones on the dedication page, “For Jim Jones – Because I admire his guts, and respect his talent. Keep the faith. Jim Baldwin.” The recipient, James Jones, won the National Book Award for his debut novel, From Here to Eternity, in 1952. Loosely based on Jones’ experiences in the pre-World War II Hawaiian Division’s 27th Infantry, the book was adapted into the Academy Award-winning film starring Burt Lancaster, Montgomery Clift, and Frank Sinatra and named one of the 100 Best Novels of the 20th century by the Modern Library board. Baldwin’s semi-autobiographical novel Go Tell It On The Mountain also made it onto the Modern Library’s list, ranking #39 out of 100. In very good condition. Lacking the title page. With Jones’ ownership inscription to the verso of the front panel, “Property of James Jones.” An exceptional association, linking two great American novelists.

"There is little argument about the writing of James Baldwin. He is one of the finest young craftsmen in American letters and has repeatedly displayed a keen mind and crisp style... In these essays, Baldwin's brilliant, cryptic, penetrating thoughts concern themselves with man's color and how he is forced to react to it because we have made it important to our social fabric" (Chicago Sun-Times).