Rites of Passage, William Golding — Advance Proof

by William Golding

€218 · Offered by eBay

First edition

Publication: London, Faber & Faber, 1980. Formatting: 8vo, pp. 278. Condition Report: Very Good. The plain, unprinted paper wrappers remain structurally sound and tightly bound, maintaining a firm, uncreased spine that indicates the book has likely remained unread. There is some minor shelf-wear and light handling wear, primarily visible as slight bumping to the corners and faint dusting to the delicate paper extremities. Internally, the pages are crisp, bright, and entirely free from foxing, inscriptions, or blemishes. A remarkably well-preserved example of an inherently fragile, pre-publication format. Catalogue Note: This is a scarce advance proof copy of William Golding’s Booker Prize-winning novel, issued internally prior to the first edition's commercial publication. Most surviving proofs of this title feature printed wrappers or oversize proof dust jackets; however, this copy is bound in entirely plain, unprinted grey-green paper wrappers. Such blank, functional bindings typically indicate an exceedingly early pre-publication state, often assembled as a rough proof for the author's final review before the official proof run was finalised. The text block displays the definitive copyright information for the 1980 Faber & Faber first edition. Lacking any illustrations or prior ownership signatures, the stark presentation of this volume offers a unique, unadulterated glimpse into the production history of one of Golding’s most celebrated works. Such early plain-wrapper sta

  • Publisher: Faber & Faber
  • Year: 1980
  • Binding: Softcover
  • Condition: Very Good

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