Tarkington, Booth

15 pages (13 x 8 1/8 in.; 330 x 207 mm), written in pencil on rectos only, in at least 3 numbered sections, being a combination of rough notes and more formal correspondence to Russell Doubleday, with 4 large pencil drawings and one plan by Tarkington; some leaves lightly creased. Bound in limp brown sheep; very worn. Loosely inserted is a formal portrait photograph of Tarkington (10 x 7 7/8 in.; 254 x 202 mm) by Underwood & Underwood, Washington, D.C., inscribed on the lower border "For Russell Doubleday with best wishes—Booth Tarkington."

15 pages (13 x 8 1/8 in.; 330 x 207 mm), written in pencil on rectos only, in at least 3 numbered sections, being a combination of rough notes and more formal correspondence to Russell Doubleday, with 4 large pencil drawings and one plan by Tarkington; some leaves lightly creased. Bound in limp brown sheep; very worn. Loosely inserted is a formal portrait photograph of Tarkington (10 x 7 7/8 in.; 254 x 202 mm) by Underwood & Underwood, Washington, D.C., inscribed on the lower border "For Russell Doubleday with best wishes—Booth Tarkington."
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

An illuminating look at one of the great juvenile characters in American literature. Tarkington here offers meticulous advice about how the characters of Penrod are to be depicted, particularly the title boy. "'Penrod' should not look tall, athletic, graceful: neither should he seem quite so short and awkward: nor must be seen either modish nor too extremely." The author offers suggestions on the depiction of other characters as well, including Penrod's father, Sam Williams, Maurice Levy, Georgie Bassett, and Rupe Collins. Tarkington also makes suggestion about the binding of the book, which, he argues should, like the illustrations, support his notion that "The value of 'Penrod' is partly in its avoidance of the old tiresome boy business that's been done to death and it isn't a book for boys, though they'll read it, incidentally. And the illustrations must be aimed, as the text is, at adults."