Description
The first edition of Asimov’s Guide to Shakespeare, with a laid-in letter and presentation card from the author, Isaac Asimov.
Octavo, [two volumes], xiv, 723pp, [7]; xiv, 843pp, [6]. Brown cloth, title stamped in gilt on the spine, over red label. Stated “first edition” on the copyright page of both volumes. Both appear unread. Marbled endpapers. Both volumes in the publisher’s dust jackets, $12.50 on the front flap, fine examples. Includes the publisher’s slipcase, in fine condition.
This set includes the author’s “Compliments Card” and a signed letter on Asimov’s personal stationery. The letter is dated October 20, 1970, and thanks the founder of TV Guide, Merrill Panitt, for hosting him at a luncheon. The letter is signed by Isaac Asimov.
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 more.
