HARRY POTTER AND THE CHAMBER OF SECRETS

(New York): Arthur A. Levine Books / Scholastic Press, 1999. First printing. Fine in a fine jacket.. Signed first US edition, first issue, of the second Harry Potter book that introduces readers to "Moaning" Myrtle and Gilderoy Lockhart in addition to Voldemort's alter ego. The books remain formative for millions, including the many readers who reject Rowling's agitations against trans rights. This copy from the personal collection of Mary and Robert Brown, longtime owners of Books, Bytes, and Beyond bookstore in Glen Rock, NJ, who hosted Rowling for an event in October 1999, where this book was signed. Pottermania was just beginning to ramp up on this tour (for PRISONER OF AZKABAN), but had not reach the fevered pitch of later releases and appearances. Due to the strength of the forgery market, Rowling signatures are justifiably suspect. Authentically signed copies with clear provenance, like this one, are therefore more desirable. An excellent example of her early signature. 9'' x 6''. Publisher's orginal green quarter cloth over blue boards. In original unclipped full-color pictorial dust jacket with art by Mary Grandpré. Illustrated throughout in black and white by Grandpré. No "Year 2" on spine; price listed at $17.95. x, 341, [1] pages. Tiny dot sticker to verso of jacket. Bright, clean, sharp, and tight overall. (Inventory #: 52213)