Tell Me a Riddle. (Association Copy, inscribed to the author’s life partner)

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Celebrated for its powerful depiction of working-class life, this is the first softcover edition of Tillie Olsen’s debut book—an important association copy inscribed at the MacDowell Colony to her longtime partner and muse: “For Hank McDonnell. With best wishes that life may be / good for your good work — and / in remembrance of your company. Affectionately Tillie Olsen. MacDowell January, 1969.”

After her divorce from Jack Olsen, Olsen spent the rest of her life with Hank McDonnell (Harold McDonnell), a longshoreman and labor organizer whose working-class background and activism helped shape the political and artistic vision behind Tell Me a Riddle. Both softcover and hardcover editions were issued simultaneously; no priority is known.

Price: $650.00