The Weather in Africa. London: Allen Lane, 1978.

First edition. Octavo. 236ppm. Lovely inscribed copy of Martha Gellhorn’s three entwined novellas collected under ‘The Weather in Africa.’ Martha has neatly inscribed the book ‘For my backpack buddy Betsy with all the tender, compassionate, patient affection of which she knows me so richly capable. Martha, London, July 1978.’

The novellas are titled ‘On the Mountains’, ‘In the Highlands’, and ‘By the Sea’ and follow the lives of Europeans as they attempt to settle in East Africa, as they experience enchantment and rejection, discomfort, and heartbreak. Gellhorn is considered one of the best war correspondents of the 20th century, and of course is often cited first as “wife of Ernest Hemingway.” The inscription to Betsy is very likely to her friend, American actress, writer and psychotherapist Betsy Drake, who is often cited as the third wife of Cary Grant. There is a trove of letters from between the two during the late 70s-early 80s.

A wonderful and bright copy in near fine condition. Scarce inscribed.