Arkham Sampler of Winter 1949

{CAS copy directly above}

Two copies have recently surfaced of this notable item. Here are some gleanings and notes listed by the two sellers: Begun by August Derleth to fill the sometimes lengthy gaps between book publications of his publishing firm Arkham House, "The Arkham Sampler" was a noble effort encompassing both Fantasy & Science Fiction. "TAS" lasted only eight issues either because it was not as successful as Derleth had hoped or had he simply become too busy with his own writings. Regardless, as exemplified by this issue, "TAS" brought some of Arkham House's finest writers together. This issue featured an uncollected "Martian" story by Ray Bradbury entitled "The Spring Night", the poem "Avowal" by Clark Ashton Smith, and a symposium of SF writers including Theodore Sturgeon, Lewis Padgett, A. E. Van Vogt and others on "Building a Science Fiction Library". Other contributors include Robert Bloch, Fritz Leiber, Jr., and others. Additionally, this copy was once owned by Clark Ashton Smith as there is a word correction to his poem in his hand. {The better of the two images - CP} Sauk City:Arkham House Volume 2, number one (whole number five). Covers are soiled and worn, one. Interior clean and tight. 100 pages. All science fiction. Includes works by Ray Bradbury and Jules Verne. Condition:Fair