ON THE ROAD

New York: Viking, 1957. First edition. Near fine in near fine jacket with just a touch of restoration.. First printing, a review copy, of Kerouac's landmark novel, and a defining work of the Beat Generation — a beautiful copy. Kerouac's novel of Sal Paradise and Dean Moriarty (literary stand-ins for the author and Neal Cassady) traveling across the United States was famously written in a drug-fueled mania on a long scroll of paper and became a surprise bestseller. It quickly went through multiple printings and made Kerouac not only a celebrity (famously appearing on the Steve Allen Show), but an unwilling spokesman for a movement. His style — both literary and personal — came to influence postwar youth culture, from rock-and-roll to Marlon Brando. The first review copy of this classic we've handled. Presents beautifully. 8" x 5.25" Original black cloth titled in white. In original unclipped ($3.95) color pictorial jacket designed by Bill English. 310 pages. Original typed Viking review slip loosely laid in, noting publication date of "September 5, 1957." Front hinge almost imperceptibly strengthened, tiny subtly tear repairs. Some expert touch-up to the color of the jacket, predominantly to front panel. Else remarkably bright, sharp, crisp, and clean. Presents fine. (Inventory #: 47591)