Modern Literature from Peter Harrington

Item 76 is the first published novel of “beat” writer William S. Burroughs: Junkie. Confessions of an Unredeemed Drug Addict. It was published pseudonymously in 1953 under the name “William Lee.” It recounts his experiences as a drug user and small-time pusher in the 1940s. Burroughs' book was repeatedly rejected by publishers, but his friend, poet Allen Ginsberg, managed to get a publisher of cheap paperback sensational works, Ace Books, to put it out. Even then, it was combined in its printing with another book, Narcotic Agent, by Maurice Helbrant. £675 (US $1,041).

Peter Harrington may be reached at +44 (0)20 7591 0220 or books@peterharrington.co.uk. Their website is www.peterharrington.co.uk.