1984-1985. A file of correspondence pertaining to Burns's only novel completed in her lifetime. Burns began writing Cold Sassy Tree after she was diagnosed with lymphoma; it was published in 1984, when Burns was 60 years old. She died at 65, and the unfinished sequel, Leaving Cold Sassy, was published posthumously. Burns's letters (four autograph letters signed, one of which is five pages long; and one typed letter signed) all date from 1985, after the book's publication: they address sales, best seller lists, travel for readings and speaking engagements, tax questions, the paperback release, the airing of the entire book on Wisconsin Public Radio, and Jimmy Carter's endorsement of her book (relayed to her third-hand). Burns also writes of working on the sequel, here titled Time, Dirt, and Money. Also included: approximately ten very detailed expense account reports that Burns submitted for travel reimbursement, one of which has an additional autograph note signed attached. There are also two announcements of author readings; a press clipping; and an unused invitation to the publication party. Cold Sassy Tree was a highly praised coming-of-age novel depicting small town Georgia life at the turn of the 20th century. It was derived from family stories that had been passed down to Burns. The lot is fine. [#036678] $1,500