Description
Signed first edition of Ghetto Fire Fighter by Harry J. Ahearn.
Octavo, [14], 156pp, [6]. Black hardcover, title in gilt on spine. Stated “First Edition” on copyright page, no additional printings listed. Solid text block, light wear to cloth, rubbing to edges of spine. A few dust remnants to top edge. In the publisher’s first state dust jacket, $5.95 retail price on front flap, small losses to head and tail of spine, with light wear along edges. Faint stains to verso, partially visible on front. A very good example.
Inscribed on the front endpaper: “For Sol / Who took my spot in Engine 58 and who is probably doing a better job / Sincerely / Harry Ahearn.”
Ghetto Fire Fighter is a rare first-person account of the Fire Department in New York City, with a particular focus on the Black and Puerto Rican portions of Upper Manhattan. The station Ahearn referenced in his inscription, Engine 58, is located at 5th and 114th St. near Harlem.
