Friends of the Bancroft Library, University of California, 1978. Telling Stories is a privately printed volume containing three short stories - the only three she has published and, according to her, ever wrote. Didion introduces the stories recalling a class she took at Berkeley when she was 19, and reflecting on the desire, excitement, and fear of wanting to have stories to tell, but fearing she didn’t have a past of significance to draw from.

In this essay, both a study of the form and an exercise of self-criticism, Didion achieves a humble, personal and enticing reflection on the craft of writing. A wonderful copy with handwritten copy edits made in Didion’s hand. Illustrated with two black and white portraits of Didion and a photograph of the manuscript of A Book of Common Prayer. Inscribed by the author.

First edition. 26 of the Series of Keepsakes issued by the Friends of the Bancroft Library for its members. Paperback, 51 pp. 24 x 16 cm. Blue embossed paper wraps, with grey lettering to cover. Trivial wear to back cover. Inscribed: “For Camilla, with love. 1985. J” on front free endpaper and with handwritten corrections in Didion’s hand. In very good condition.