First edition, first printing hardback of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, with the full number line 10-1, signed by J.K. Rowling on the title page in October 1998 at the Cheltenham Children's Literature Festival.
Included with the book is a handwritten letter from the previous owner recounting the charming story behind the signing. At the event, his youngest daughter was asked by the organiser to present a large plastic flower to J.K. Rowling at the end of her talk. As the children were leaving the hall, however, she forgot to present it and instead held tightly onto the flower while queuing for the signing. Rowling was so charmed by this that she offered to write a special message in the book, despite her agent's suggestion that she sign only her name due to time constraints. As a book collector, the girl's father respectfully requested just the signature.
Fully authenticated by J.K. Rowling signature expert Adam Houston of The Harry Potter Specialist. The book comes with a Letter of Authenticity and a collector’s card with further details.
This unread copy is in near fine condition, with firm upper corners and slightly pushed lower corners. The spine head is firm and the spine foot very lightly pushed. The boards remain sharp, with no fading. The interior is completely clean, free of names, inscriptions, dog-ears or other flaws. The pages are unusually bright, with hardly any of the usual browning to the edges. The fine first-state dust jacket is free from fading, edgewear and shelfwear. Housed in a custom-made half-leather clamshell box.
A wonderful collector's item, combining a rare early signature with exceptional provenance and a unique and charming story.
