The manuscript also features a personal inscription from Steinbeck to David Heyler, likely in the 1950s. On the title page, Steinbeck’s handwritten notes reflect his wry acknowledgement of the manuscript’s authenticity, citing typographical errors as irrefutable evidence. The original title with the definite article, along with a variant subtitle, is indicative of the work-in-progress.
“This is a remarkable item that shows the young Steinbeck learning the craft," said Max Hasler, Book Specialist at Forum Auctions. "Not only does the typescript noticeably differ from the published version, it also shows how Steinbeck himself, as well as his friends and editors, actively shaped the text in bringing it to publication. Working manuscripts of important works are very rarely seen on the open market so this represents a unique opportunity to own an item that embodies the start of Steinbeck’s illustrious career.” The work carries an estimate of £35,000-£50,000 (lot 119).
Other works from the Mary Steinbeck Dekker Family Collection going under the hammer include:
- a first edition of The Grapes of Wrath previously owned, read and inscribed by several contemporary “okies”, the very people whose plight provided the basis for the novel (estimate £1,000-£1,500)
- a first edition of The Pastures of Heaven, signed by the author (estimate of £700-£1,000)
- Steinbeck’s own signed copy of his North American Review featuring a Steinbeck story The Red Pony across three issues (estimate of £1,500-£2,000)
- a copy of Steinbeck’s Saint Katy the Virgin, one of only 199 copies (estimate £1,800-£2,200)
An unusual item in the collection is a lock of three-year-old John Steinbeck’s blonde hair, in its original envelope and inscribed by his mother "John’s curls - / cut off Feb, 27, 1905/ 3 years old" which carries an estimate of £500-£700 (lot 118).
