Rare Winston Churchill signed first edition of his only novel, ''Savrola'', written by Churchill as a young man in his early 20s. New York: Longmans, Green, and Co., 1900 first U.S. edition, second printing; the U.S. edition preceded the British edition by one month. Beautifully penned by Churchill on the front free endpaper, ''From Winston S. Churchill'' in fountain pen, without inscription. Bound in publisher's blue cloth boards with gilt titling. Measures 5.25'' x 7.625''. Front hinge separated and boards lightly rubbed, otherwise very good plus condition.
''Savrola: A Tale of the Revolution in Laurania'' tells the story of Laurania, a fictional capital in Europe beset by turmoil and revolt against its dictatorial leader. Churchill was apparently very pleased upon the novel's publication in book form though later embarrassed by its melodramatic style. He did, however, write the foreward to a new post-war edition published in 1956, indicating a certain pride in the story. It remains the only work of fiction written by the great British statesman. Signed copies are extraordinarily rare, with this being the first one we have ever sold.