First hardback edition, first printing of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, inscribed by J.K. Rowling on the dedication page:
‘To Felix – I love seeing a copy of Harry that looks as though it’s been read! J.K. Rowling’
What makes this copy particularly appealing is the remarkable connection between Rowling's inscription and the book's condition. The visible signs of use, which would ordinarily detract from a book's desirability, take on a very different significance here. They are precisely what inspired Rowling's wonderfully personal remark, giving this copy a distinctive character that a pristine example could never possess.
The signs of wear are largely confined to the exterior of the book. The spine ends and corners are rubbed and worn, while the contents are surprisingly well preserved. The page edges show the usual age-related toning, but the pages and binding remain sound. The endpapers are clean, there are no further inscriptions or annotations.
The book retains its original first-state dust jacket, which remains in very good condition despite some wear to the spine ends and corners. The colours remain remarkably fresh, with no noticeable fading. A particularly appealing detail is the original Smarties Award sticker on the dust jacket.
The authenticity of Rowling's inscription has been verified by Adam Houston of The Harry Potter Specialist, and the book is accompanied by his Letter of Authenticity (LoA) and a collector's card. This exceptional copy is now housed in a beautiful custom-made half-leather clamshell box, providing both protection and an elegant presentation.
