Schnozzola: The Story of Jimmy Durante.

FOWLER, Gene.

$550.00

Item Number: 65019

New York: The Viking Press, 1951.

First edition of Gene Folwer’s warm and entertaining story of Jimmy  “Schnozzola” Durante, from the library of Barrett C. Kiesling. Octavo, original boards. Inscribed by Jimmy Durante on the front free endpaper, “To my pal, Barrett Kiesling – This is a Pleasure, Jimmy Durante my Best to you & yours Jimmy.” Also laid in is a type-written letter dated June 16, 1972, signed by Jimmy Durante in blue ink with a caricature stamp of him in the upper left corner, “‘Lill’ and Barrett C. Kiesling 388 North Cambridge Avenue Claremont California 91711 Dear Lill and Barrett: Thanks a million for your wonderful letter. From the bottom of my heart I want you to know that I really appreciate it. It was nice hearing from you. Thanks again and my very best wishes to you, Howard and yours. Love ‘n kisses, Jimmy Durante.” Barrett C. Kiesling was the Publicity Director for Metro Goldwyn Mayer Studios from 1928 to 1960. Fine in a near fine price-clipped dust jacket with a chips to the spine and rear panel. An exceptional association copy.

In this warm biography, Gene Fowler tells the story of one of the best loved and most widely respected figures in the entertainment world of the mid-twentieth century, Jimmy  "Schnozzola" Durante. The American singer, comedian, and actor 's prominent nose, which he often referred to as 'The Schnozzola', helped make him one of America's most familiar and popular personalities from the 1920's through the 1970's.