In Cold Blood
True Crime Non-Fiction Novel Literary Journalism Crime Drama Psychological Thriller American Gothic Collectible Literature
Truman Capote’s 1966 first-edition hardcover of In Cold Blood is the cornerstone of modern true-crime literature and a must-have for serious collectors. This debut printing—complete with its original, though well-loved, dust jacket—captures the moment when Capote fused journalistic precision with novelistic depth, creating what many call the original “non-fiction novel.” Because first-edition copies are scarce on the market, especially in English, owning one places you in the company of bibliophiles who prize both literary innovation and Cold-War-era Americana.
The book itself recounts the chilling 1959 Kansas farmhouse murders with such atmospheric detail that it redefined narrative reporting and launched the true-crime genre. Readers continue to be drawn to Capote’s lyrical prose, psychological nuance, and the ethical questions he raises about violence, justice, and the American psyche. Whether you’re an academic studying new journalism or a thriller lover seeking a classic that still grips from first page to last, this edition delivers an immersive, spine-tingling experience.
From a collecting standpoint, the vintage 1966 imprint carries extra cachet: it predates reprints, retains the period typesetting and dust-jacket art, and sits at the apex of Capote’s bibliography. Inscriptions inside and wear to the jacket only enhance its authenticity, documenting decades of careful reading and provenance—hallmarks that seasoned buyers actively search for. For gift-givers, book-dealers, or home-library curators, this copy offers both conversation-starting character and long-term investment potential in the rare-book market.
Refer to our eBay listing for a full condition report and many more high-quality pictures of this item.
Buy Now