Ivory Tower: And Other Radio Plays [ Signed and Inscribed to Jack Skirball ]

Arch Oboler

Chicago: William Targ, 1940. First Limited Edition. Hardcover. Near Fine Book / Very Good+ Dust jacket in archival cover. Item #4844

Only the most discerning horror enthusiasts may be acquainted with Arch Oboler.

This is a First Edition, signed and inscribed by Oboler. It is a limited edition of only 1000 copies.

Arch Oboler signed this copy to Jack Skirball on the flyleaf, writing: "To Jack Skirball/May I never disappoint him./ Arch Oboler." Jack Skirball produced films that stared Cary Grant and also produced Hitchcock directed films.

The outer boards are covered in fabric that appears Near Fine+ with no damage to the gilt label, save for a nick or two to the back board. Spine is clean and shows no creasing. Just a touch of staining to fly leaf, with very light staining to middle of text body. Tight binding and clean interior with very rare discolorations. Saffron coloring to top end of pages is still bright and clean.

The dust jacket is un-clipped, intact and shows some staining and small chipping along the top. A Very Good+ dust jacket with a Near Fine book.

While Oboler might not be as widely recognized among the general audience, his contributions to the horror genre and the delights of vintage radio dramas are long lasting. Oboler carved out a diverse and highly successful career as a novelist, producer, screenwriter, playwright, and director. His historic radio program, "Lights Out," not only captivated audiences but successfully made the leap from radio to television.

This edition features three of Arch Oboler's radio play scripts: "Ivory Tower," "Alter Ego," and "The Ugliest Man in the World." Presented during the pivotal period just before the outbreak of World War II, these plays carry significant historical weight. With their anti-Fascist and anti-Nazi convictions, these works likely struck a chord with the prevalent sentiments of the era, making them a poignant reflection of the historical context in which they were performed.

Oboler's novel "House on Fire" drew comparisons to Ira Levin's iconic work, "Rosemary's Baby." Stephen King, renowned master of horror literature, referenced Oboler's story "Chicken Heart" as a memorable horror-radio experience for him.

Price: $150.00  other currencies