Thursday, August 14, 2025

Ralph Bills's Copy of Homebodies by Charles Addams

Homebodies, a collection of cartoons by Charles Addams, was published in 1954. The Addams Family members on the front dust jacket should look familiar.


Ralph Bills's copy is a first edition, first printing. In the year after publication, Addams provided an inscription and a lovely drawing of Uncle Fester out ice fishing. Those fish seem a little bit familiar too.
"For Ralph Bills                
with admiration and
appreciation for some   
very nice thoughts.      
         Chas Addams
New York             
1955"               


It's just remarkable how many eBay sellers—that's the auction site is where this book is currently listed—don't know how to keep smart phone shadows out of their photographs.







In 1954, the book retailed for $2.95. A bargain, no doubt.


Charles Addams
eBay listing accessed August 13, 2025



Does this book have its original dust jacket or is an eighth printing of the dust jacket paired with a first printing of the book? This is not entirely clear to me from the item specifics and description.
Charles Addams
eBay item description

[End of eBay listing]


Shortly after I accessed this listing, I was offered a $50 discount.


November 2, 2025 Update:  I received an offer from the seller but I did not act.




Note:  You know the drill. Collectors of books with Charles Addams originals like this one are invited to send images of such drawings here. I can usually be persuaded to post them.


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