A Widow for One Year [SIGNED Association Copy with ALS]

Amsterdam: Anthos, 1998. Signed first edition of rare English language Dutch edition of Irving's novel. The true first edition of Irving's novel, preceding the release of the US and UK editions. SIGNED presentation from Irving to motorcycle legend Cook Neilson, who took the photo of Irving that was used for the dust jacket of the book: "For Stepp and Cook - with my appreciation and affection - John Irving, April 1, 1998." Together with AUTOGRAPH LETTER SIGNED by Irving on his stationery to Neilson laid in, in which Irving says that Neilson's photos will also be used on the UK edition, and jokes that another photo, to be used for the American and Canadian editions is more flattering, because it doesn't show Irving's face. Closes with mention of a nearby school in Vermont. Neilson was a preeminent motorcycle journalist and editor of Cycle Magazine. As a motrocyclist, Neilson won the Daytona Superbike race in 1977 on a Ducati. He was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame and the Ducati North America Hall of Fame in 2006. Published Amsterdam: Anthos, 1998. 8vo. Some foxing spots along front edge of page block and verso of dust jacket, else near fine in near fine dust jacket. One page typewritten letter on laid paper, signed by Irving, near fine.. Signed by Author. 1st. Hard. Near Fine/Near Fine. 8vo.