First Edition of King's First Book
Carrie
Publication: New York: Doubleday, 1974. First Edition.
Notes: A very attractive first printing of King's first published novel, the first book from one of the most successful writers of our time.
Originally discarded by King and rescued from the trash by his wife Tabitha, Carrie emerged from King's experiences as a high school teacher to become a defining work of supernatural horror. The novel's exploration of teenage alienation and revenge, powered by telekinetic abilities, struck a chord with readers and critics alike. Brian De Palma's 1976 film adaptation starring Sissy Spacek transformed both King's and De Palma's careers, establishing a pattern of successful King adaptations that continues today. The hardcover first printing was modest—just 30,000 copies—compared to the million-copy first printings of King's later books.
Edition + Condition: First edition (stated). This copy, like all stated first editions, has the gutter code P6 on page 199. A near fine to fine copy in full maroon stamped in gilt on the spine. With a Dinkytown bookstore label on the rear pastedown. The dust jacket is near fine with the correct $5.95 price (the price may be required to identify first printing jackets). There is very minor wear to the upper left corner of the front panel and a bit of shelfwear to the white rear panel, but this is a very nice copy.
Item No: #366201
Price: $3,800