Malamud, Bernard. THE NATURAL

New York: Harcourt, Brace, [1952]. First edition of the author's first book. 8vo. This copy is in the red binding, one of three. There is no known priority; however, the red binding is in cloth while the other two are in paper boards, suggesting it might well be the primary binding. The 1984 Barry Levinson film based on the novel wrongheadedly subverts Malamud’s tragic ending in favor of a Hollywood feel-good finale. Fine in a fine, unsullied dust jacket. Housed in a custom-made clamshell box. Hardcover.