Day Eight

London: Hutchinson, 1978. First edition. Cloth. Fine/Very Good Indeed. 8.5" by 5.5". Not Stated. An uncorrected proof copy, and a signed first edition copy, of Ayrton's scarce science fiction novel set in Africa. An uncorrected proof copy of this work in the publisher's original proof paper wraps, with the publisher's original unclipped dust wrapper; and a first edition copy, in the publisher's original cloth binding, with the original unclipped dust wrapper. Inscribed by the author to the front free end paper ('Basil - love from Elisabeth, 11. 1. '78') and to the title page ('Elisabeth Ayrton, 11. 1. 78') of the first edition copy. This volume is from the library of Basil Wright (1907-1987), a documentary filmmaker, film historian, film critic and teacher.Loosely inserted to the proof copy is a handwritten review by an anonymous person.Elisabeth Ayrton (1910-1991) was a British novelist, best known for her cookery books, though she also worked for the Special Operations Executive during the Second World War. This set includes two copies of her science fiction novel, following the seventh day of creation, dawning in the game reserves of East Africa. One copy is an uncorrected proof copy, the other is a first edition copy in hardback format. This work is now a scarce find. Uncorrected proof copy in the publisher's original proof paper wraps, with the publisher's original unclipped dust wrapper; and a first edition copy, in the publisher's original cloth binding, with the original unclipped dust wrapper. Externally, the cloth of the hardback is in excellent condition. The paper wraps of the proof copy are very smart, though a little creased to the spine, which is slightly cocked. Internally, firmly bound. Pages are bright and clean. Dust wrapper to the hardback copy is in lovely condition. Dust wrapper to the proof copy is creased to the upper extremities and to the tail of the spine, but remains bright and otherwise smart. Fine