NY: Ballantine Books, 1953. First paperback printing, issued simultaneously with the hardcover. 12mo (mass-market paperback). 214pp. Very good condition, with no serious structural issues, but with the following minor cosmetic imperfections (all visible in photos): light crease to front hinge, several soft creases to covers, wear and surface flaking along rear hinge. Textblock somewhat toned. Spine slightly scalloped with a couple of very light creases; binding remains strong and secure. Signed by Clarke in his customary blue ballpoint pen on the title page.
A reasonably presentable signed copy of this first issue version of Clarke's fifth novel, one of the landmark works of modern science fiction. Covert art by Richard Powers.
