Ondaatje, Michael.

THE DAINTY MONSTERS. Inscribed by Ondaatje No. 185/500.

Toronto: Coach House Press, 1967.

First Edition. Hardcover. Signed by Author. Ondaatje, Michael. THE DAINTY MONSTERS. Signed . Toronto: Coach House Press, 1967. First Edition. A superb presentation copy of Michael Ondaatje’s elusive first book — a landmark debut from one of Canada’s most celebrated literary voices. Octavo. A fine copy in the original cloth, housed in a near fine unclipped dustwrapper showing only the lightest edge wear.

Elegantly inscribed on the front flyleaf to Hugo McPherson, distinguished McGill University professor and noted Hawthorne scholar:

"For Hugo McPherson / with best wishes / Michael Ondaatje, Jan. 1968"

This is No. 185 of only 500 numbered copies of the true first edition, issued by the then-new Coach House Press — a small avant-garde publisher that would go on to become a cornerstone of Canadian literary culture. The Dainty Monsters marks the beginning of Ondaatje’s remarkable literary journey, blending surreal imagery and lyric intensity in a voice already unmistakably his own.

Exceptionally scarce, particularly when bearing such an early and personal association inscription.

Item #34169    Price: US$1,950.00