1990 James Karen Inscribed Book Magic Castle Comics Howard Storm Ridgely Estate

by Elizabeth Gage

$108 · Offered by eBay

Signed

Fascinating Hollywood association copy of Elizabeth Gage’s A Glimpse of Stocking, First Edition / First Printing, personally inscribed and signed by veteran character actor JAMES KAREN (1923–2018) at Christmas 1990. This copy was acquired from the Howard Storm estate and appears to have been part of the personal collection associated with Howard Storm and/or actor Robert Ridgely, the first husband of Storm’s wife Patricia. The lengthy handwritten inscription is particularly interesting because Karen praises the recipient’s wit and “comic mind” and appears to reference an “every other Friday” Magic Castle gathering. THE MAGIC CASTLE / “CASTLE COMICS” CONNECTION Research uncovered a remarkable connection between the wording of Karen’s inscription and a real private gathering of Hollywood comedians. Comedian Jackie Curtiss later recalled participating in an informal group known as the “Castle Comics,” organized by actor and comedian Dave Madden of The Partridge Family. According to Curtiss, the Castle Comics met EVERY OTHER FRIDAY in the Houdini Room at Hollywood’s famous Magic Castle. The gatherings brought together veteran comedians and entertainers to trade jokes, stories, insults and comic repartee. Curtiss recalled participants including Dick Gautier, Louis Nye, Tom Poston, Pat McCormick, Dave Madden and others. This is particularly noteworthy because James Karen’s handwritten 1990 inscription appears to praise the recipient as one of the great comic minds among the every-o

• Publisher: Simon & Schuster
• Year: 1990
• ISBN: 9780671644291
• Condition: Very Good

Found via Rare Books Intel, a search across rare-book dealers, auction houses and marketplaces worldwide.