1947 The Chequer Board, Nevil Shute, Hardcover. Measures about 8" by 5.5". 380 pages. Good condition. Shows age and use, dust cover has damage.
Own a compelling piece of 20th-century literature with this original 1947 first US edition of "The Chequer Board". Measuring approximately 8" by 5.5" and spanning 380 pages, this hardcover was released during Nevil Shute's rise as one of the era's most significant storytellers. The novel follows the journey of John (Jackie) Turner, a man given one year to live, as he seeks out three very different men he shared a hospital ward with during the war: a British pilot, a young corporal, and a black American serviceman.
Shute was ahead of his time in using this narrative to challenge contemporary prejudices, offering a sympathetic portrayal of racial and cultural integration that was considered bold for 1947. The story travels from the English countryside to the remote villages of Burma, blending historical realism with Shute's signature interest in human ethics and spiritual redemption. This volume is a must-have for collectors of mid-century first editions, fans of World War II historical fiction, or those who appreciate Shute's mastery of the "ordinary hero" theme. While the dust jacket shows wear and damage consistent with its nearly 80-year history, it remains a sturdy and readable artifact of a transformative period in modern fiction.
This item is vintage, over 75 years old. While it appears to be in good condition, there is the possibility I may have missed a minor detail. In the unlikely event I missed a major flaw I would reach out prior to sending it.
