NY, Dutton, (1978). The advance reading copy of his fourth novel and breakthrough book, which went into numerous printings, became a multi-million copy bestseller and a National Book Award winner in its paperback release. The first printing of Garp was reported at 35,000 copies; none of Irving's previous books had sold even 5,000 copies, with one of them having had sales under 2000. Irving switched publishers for this book, and his new publisher decided to promote the novel heavily. After issuing two sets of proofs in small numbers for early readers and reviewers, Dutton printed this advance reading copy for wide distribution to the book trade. It worked in bringing attention to Irving's novel, which became a bestseller; since then, Irving's books have had six-figure first printings and his reputation as a major American novelist is secure. The publisher's risk, in producing such a large first printing, and their marketing efforts -- including creating this advance copy -- played no small part in this transformation. This copy is signed by the author. Spine creased and faded; light spotting; near fine in wrappers. [#023441] SOLD