The John R. Hawkins Collection

 

Sons Come and Go, Mother’s Hang in There Forever by William Saroyan

 

Illustrated by Al Hirschfeld

 

Limited First Edition, First Printing, 1976

 

This is a MUST HAVE for fans of William Saroyan. The book and associated ephemera include:

 

Full page inscription and separate page signature of William Saroyan

 

Full Double Page Saroyan Drawing with Signature

 

Al Hirschfeld signature with drawing of hand pointing to his name.

 

Double Sided Letter from Saroyan to John Hawkins.

 

Program for Memorial Tribute to William Saroyan, June 1, 1981

 

John R. Hawkins was the editor of the First Edition Division of the Franklin Library. He was also a friend of William Saroyan. During his tenure as editor, he was responsible for working with the various authors who participated in their publishing program. “Sons Come and Go, Mother’s Hang in There Forever” was one of the “limited first editions” he edited.

 

This is an extremely rare book. Since the limited first editions were issued unsigned, it is rare to find one that is author signed. This edition is not only author and illustrator signed but is inscribed, contains drawings, and contains a personal letter and ephemera.

 

The book features the usual Franklin Library fineries of a full leather cover, gold gilding and gilting, silk moiré endpapers and a matching satin bookmark. I am classifying the book as FINE with the most minor of shelfwear to the bottom leather edges. A booklet with Notes from the Editors about the edition is included with the book.

 

At the bottom of this listing are numerous photographs of the book, inscription, signatures, letter and Memorial Program.