Ragtime - E.L. Doctorow

E.L. Doctorow has been defined as one of the best writers of his time. His novels include The Book of Daniel, The March, and his most famous work, Ragtime.

Published in 1975, Ragtime was received well by critics. The book sold very well in its initial month – and is widely known as Doctorow’s most famous work to date. Doctorow won the National Book Critics Circle award for this novel, and it was made into a film in 1981 and a Tony award winning musical in 1988.

Signed first editions of this title are the most desirable from this author. The only book that can compare is Doctorow’s first publication, Welcome To Hard Times, which was published 15 years prior. The major defect that might plague first printings is the dust cover. Printed with a white cover, the jacket is prone to yellowing around the edges and being frail or brittle at the folds.

Prior to publication, Random House produced a signed limited edition of 150 copies that were available for private sale. Originally, the title sold for less than $50. Today, the book sells for anywhere between $400 and $1,100 depending on the seller. Since there were only 150 copies, this is an extremely small limited print run for any book. Since this is Doctorow’s most famous title, it makes it even more valuable.

Rarely are these copies found for sale. The book is over 30 years old, and as Doctorow continues to write, he gets better and better. His latest novel, The March, was nominated for the 2006 Pulitzer Prize.

If you are a Doctorow fan and a collector – this is a title you cannot pass up.