Talking It Over (Alfred A. Knopf, 1991; White Proof in Black Container)


Notes on this edition: Julian Barnes. Talking It Over. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 1991. Pp. 275 + [3]. 21.2 x 13.6 cm.

In 1991, prior to publishing the hardback edition, Alfred A. Knopf issued a special, signed “proof” edition of Julian Barnes’s novel Talking It Over. The text is bound in white wraps with black text and is housed in a glossy, black, stiff paper slip case/container with the title and graphics printed in white.

Though booksellers routinely refer to this edtion as a “limited” or signed “uncorrected proof”, nowhere on the book or cover does it clearly state that the book is an uncorrected proof, nor is there a limitation statement. That said, this edition was clearly published prior to the Knopf hardback and used as a promotional item.

Not to be confused with the standard uncorrected proof printed in blue paper covers and sent to reviewers.