Nabokov, Vladimir. The Real Life of Sebastian Knight.. New Directions, Norfolk, CT, 1941.

Price: US$125.00 + shipping

Description: First edition, second issue of Nabokov's first novel published in English. Octavo, original cloth. In near fine condition The Real Life of Sebastian Knight is a perversely magical literary detective story -- subtle, intricate, leading to a tantalizing climax -- about the mysterious life of a famous writer. Many people knew things about Sebastian Knight as a distinguished novelist, but probably fewer than a dozen knew of the two love affairs that so profoundly influenced his career, the second one in such a disastrous way. After Knight's death, his half brother sets out to penetrate the enigma of his life, starting with a few scanty clues in the novelist's private papers. His search proves to be a story as intriguing as any of his subject's own novels, as baffling, and, in the end, as uniquely rewarding.

Seller: Raptis Rare Books, Palm Beach, FL, U.S.A.