NY, HRW, (1970). The uncorrected proof copy of her scarce first book, a coming-of-age story about a year in the life of a young black girl who endures a series of hardships and degradations and finally becomes so fixated on the blue eyes of a friend's doll that she goes insane. With this novel, Morrison began the exploration of race in American culture and society, and especially within the black community, that has become the dominant theme of her writing. It was not until her third novel, Song of Solomon, was published, however, that Morrison received widespread national attention. Since then, her books have been bestsellers upon publication, and Beloved, her fifth book, was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for fiction in 1988, and she won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1993. Beloved was also recently voted the best novel of the past 25 years by a group of writers, editors and critics that were contacted by The New York Times. Inscribed by the author: "From Toni Morrison/ -- the Brownest Eye/ 3.14.1974." Tall ringbound wrappers, darkened at the edges; still near fine, in custom clamshell box. A scarce book even in the regular trade edition, it is virtually unknown in proof form. This is the only proof copy we have ever seen, and it bears a remarkable inscription from Morrison, who has become increasingly inaccessible as her public stature and celebrity have grown. [#911085] SOLD

All books are first printings of first editions or first American editions unless otherwise noted.

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