Tove Jansson - Sun City - First UK Edition, Signed/Inscribed

Sun City by Tove Jansson — first printing of the first UK edition, published by Hutchinson, London, 1977. Hardcover in dustjacket, pp. 159. Printed in English.

A somewhat quirky and underappreciated novel — Jansson’s first foray into purely adult fiction, set in a Florida retirement community. A long way from Moominvalley, but well-received on publication and now increasingly sought after by Jansson collectors.

Signed and inscribed at the title page on the occasion of the Artists’ Peace Train in Finland, 1982 — an event organised to promote peace and cultural exchange, in which Jansson participated. A fine provenance for a Jansson association copy.

Condition: A Near Fine copy. Binding firm and square with minor pushing to spine tips and slightly bumped/swollen corners. Free from owner names. Text block fresh and free from foxing. Dustjacket unclipped (price £3.50 net at front flap); corners rubbed with small loss of laminate, and a small tear and chip at the crown joint with the rear panel.