RARE Signed 1st Ed 1957 309 East Bianca VanOrden Association Copy Yale Interest For Sale

Up for sale is an incredibly scarce, signed first-edition copy of Bianca VanOrden’s mid-century novellas, 309 East and A Night of Levitation.

THE INSCRIPTION & SIGNIFICANT HISTORICAL CONTEXT:

This copy features a fascinating, formal presentation inscription on the front flyleaf written by the author:

"To John F. Joseph with admiration and best wishes. Bianca VanOrden. June 7, 1961."

This is a premier Association Copy with direct roots in the mid-century Yale University literary and academic circles. Bianca VanOrden (the pen name of Betty Baur) was married to the legendary Yale classicist, intellectual, and author Bernard Knox. During the exact period this book was signed (June 1961), the couple lived in New Haven, Connecticut, where Knox was a prominent member of the Yale faculty.

The recipient, John F. Joseph, was a formal professional acquaintance within this elite New Haven academic community. The formal inclusion of his middle initial and the author's expression of "with admiration" signifies a meaningful, peer-to-peer exchange rather than a casual fan signing.

CONDITION DETAILS:

Dust Jacket: Present and retains its striking blue and yellow graphic design. Shows visible wear consistent with age, including edge rubbing, minor scuffing, and small chips/tears along the spine and corners. (Please review photos).

Binding & Pages:

The hardcover binding is secure. The interior pages are clean, bright, and free of writing or highlighting, aside from the author's authentic 1961 inscription.

Overall: A very good, structurally sound copy of a highly elusive signed mid-century title.

SHIPPING & HANDLING:

Will be packed with extreme care in a sturdy box with layers of bubble wrap to preserve the dust jacket and shipped securely via USPS Media Mail (tracked and insured).

An exceptional addition for collectors of mid-century American fiction, unique literary association copies, or Yale University history. Offers are welcome!