Ask the Dust by FANTE, John - (1939)

NY: Stackpole. (1939). The second book in his semi-autobiographical "Bandini quartet," based on the author's life and experiences in Depression-era Los Angeles. Made into a film in 2006 by Robert Towne, who reportedly called it the best novel ever written about Los Angeles. The film starred Colin Farrell, Selma Hayek and Donald Sutherland. Inscribed by Fante in the year of publication to the collector (and bibliographer of Christopher Morley) Henry Tatnall Brown, Jr., "with the hope that he likes my book," and dated November 14, 1939, apparently at a promotional event for the book. Brown's bookplate front pastedown, slight offsetting from the bookplate; else a fine copy in a near fine, spine-sunned dust jacket with very light edge wear. A very nice copy of Fante's most famous and acclaimed book, seldom found with a notable association. First Edition. Hardcover. Fine.