Updike, John HOPING FOR A HOOPOE

Victor Gollancz, London, 1959. Author's First Book, first published as "The Carpentered Hen" in the U.S. in 1958. First Edition, Inscribed By Author. Binding: Cloth. Book Condition: Near Fine+. Jacket Condition: Near Fine in Archival Plastic. Size: 8vo - over 7.75" - 9.75" tall. A collection of light verse inscribed by John Updike on the front free endpaper in blue ink: "Here it is The Carpentered Hen [underlined] for the Scranton Public Library and Marjorie Rees. John Updike." In black cloth, the book is in fine unread condition but for natural browning to the pages and a touch of a bump to the lower spine. The dustjacket is complete and in fine condition but for a touch of sunning to the spine and light soiling and wrinkling (at the upper edge). Overall a very nice copy. Parrish Books guarantees all signatures as authentic.