Description
The first edition of Asimov’s Annotated Paradise Lost, by John Milton, the only known copy inscribed by Isaac Asimov.
Octavo, [4], 761pp. Beige cloth, title stamped in gilt over green label. Stated “First Edition” on copyright page. Appears unread. In the publisher’s dust jacket, $16.95 on front flap, light wear from handling at crown of spine, a bright, near fine example.
Inscribed on the title page: “To Merrill Panitt, with the greatest of pleasure. Isaac Asimov.”
A scarce work from Asimov by itself, with this copy being the only known signed copy to appear on the public market.
This copy was inscribed to Merrill Panitt (1918-1994), the founder and editorial director of TV Guide. During World War II, Panitt served on the staff of Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower, where he came to the attention of Walter Annenberg, the publisher of The Philadelphia Inquirer. Panitt joined The Inquirer in 1945 and worked with Annenberg to found TV Guide in 1953. He later became the director of Triangle Publications, the publisher of TV Guide, Seventeen Magazine, and many more.
