The Sound of Laughter
New York: Doubleday & Company, Inc., 1970. Michael K. Firth. First printing. Hardcover.
A Very Good book block and case—the only flaw being some fraying at the head of the spine. The jacket is unclipped, though bearing several large closed tears and discoloration to the spine. Inscribed by the author to fashion journalist and editor Grace Mirabella’s (1929–2021) husband Bill Cahan, of whom Cerf was a patient. Included is a Memorial Hospital follow-up memo from Cerf’s treatment at Cahan’s medical office. Black and white illustrations by Michael K. Firth throughout. Stated first edition. 463 pages. 5.75” x 8.5”.
Bennett Cerf (1898–1971), one of the founders of the publishing company Random House, wrote a number of compilation joke books. The Sound of Laughter (1970) was his last.
Illustrated by Michael K. Firth—a Random House alum turned the Muppets’ Henson Associates art director—the book is filled with easily digestible quips and anecdotes. Lighthearted reading for the nightstand or a little charisma fodder for the next social event.
Price: $50.00