Sandison, David (Kerouac, Jack)

Jack Kerouac: An Illustrated Biography

ISBN: 1556523580
Chicago, IL: Chicago Review Press, 1999. First Edition. Hardcover. "A great many books have been written about Jack Kerouac, and the Net is awash with those who claim some sort of soul-mating with him. I knew him in his prime until his death, from 1947 to 1969, but I am mystified by the increase in his popularity generation after generation since...(Kerouac) responded emotionally to any stimuli, within or without, and he spoke or acted on impulse most of the time. Therefore, it is extremely difficult, if not impossible, to pin him down to any concrete belief or attitude. We do so like to pigeonhole, label and hook people into stereotypes...Fortunately, this (book) is an exception." (From foreword by Carolyn Cassady, pg. 10) A biography of Jack Kerouac, Founding Father of the Beat Generation, in words & pictures by the late David Sandison, a prolific biographer & popular historian. The text serves well enough as a brief introduction to Kerouac's life, works & associates- but the many rare, vintage contemporary images including of book covers & ephemera are what make this production an important component of the Kerouac biographical canon. Also of significance is the foreword by Carolyn Cassady (quoted above), Neal's long-suffering wife & widow, an acclaimed memoirist in her own right who provides, with her unique perspective, deep insight earned from her intimate friendship with & understanding of Kerouac. Large-format hardcover in illustrated boards & unclipped dust jacket, first edition. A fascinating & worthy Kerouac collectible. Book in very fine condition with only very slight wear at edges & corners of front, back covers & spine; otherwise substantially mint inside & out. Dust jacket very fine with very light rubbing & scratching to front, back covers & spine; tiny bumps & light creasing at edges & corners of same & flaps; previous seller's small hand-written price sticker affixed just below printed price near upper edge of front flap. Very Fine / Very Fine. [Item #4155]

Price: $40.00