The Witches Of Eastwick

Witches of Eastwick

1

Hardcover

1st

1st

Fiction

307

3

2018-06-26 17:09:31

Based on the images provided, here is an overview of the book, its historical importance, edition details, and value:
Book Overview
The Witches of Eastwick is a novel by acclaimed American author John Updike, published in 1984. The story is set in the fictional town of Eastwick, Rhode Island, in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It follows three divorced women—Alexandra Spofford, Jane Smart, and Sukie Rougemont—who discover and develop magical powers. Their quiet, newfound coven is disrupted by the arrival of a mysterious and devilish man, Darryl Van Horne, who seduces each of them and further unleashes their powers, leading to a chain of events with both enchanting and destructive consequences. The book is known for its blend of social commentary and supernatural elements.
Historical Importance
The book is considered a significant work by a major American author. Updike himself described the novel as being ”about female power, a power that patriarchal societies have denied.” Many critics and scholars have viewed it as a commentary on feminism and the changing roles of women in American society during the 1970s. The book’s use of witchcraft serves as a metaphor for the aspirations and power of women during this era. Its status as a popular novel by a Pulitzer Prize-winning author, combined with its thought-provoking themes, solidified its place in modern American literature. It was also famously adapted into a major motion picture in 1987 starring Jack Nicholson, Cher, Susan Sarandon, and Michelle Pfeiffer, further cementing its cultural footprint.
Is it a First Edition?
Yes, the book shown in the image is a first edition. The copyright page clearly states:
* ”Copyright © 1984 by John Updike”
* ”Published by Alfred A. Knopf, Inc.”
* ”First Trade Edition”
The last line, ”A signed first edition of this book has been privately printed by The Franklin Library,” is also a key indicator. This phrase, found on many Knopf first editions from that period, distinguishes the mass-market first trade edition from a separate, often more valuable, leather-bound signed edition produced for The Franklin Library’s ”Signed First Edition Society.”
Value
The value of a first edition of The Witches of Eastwick can vary widely depending on its condition, whether it has the original dust jacket, and if it is signed.
* Standard first edition (unsigned) with dust jacket: Unsigned first editions in good to very good condition, especially with a well-preserved dust jacket, typically sell for around $30 to $100.
* Franklin Library signed first edition: The leather-bound signed editions from The Franklin Library are generally more valuable, often fetching prices in the range of $100 to $200+, depending on condition.
* Unique or special copies: A first edition that is both signed and in fine condition could be worth even more, especially if it has a unique inscription or is associated with a public figure. For example, a copy signed by both Updike and Jack Nicholson has sold for a significantly higher price.
Given that your copy appears to be a standard first trade edition, its value would likely fall within the lower end of this range, depending on its physical condition.

Alfred A Knoff, Inc.

9780394537603

1984-01-01

1

New York

Yes

~$6.04

2024-12-10

2018-06-26 17:09:31