Rare First Edition: “Body Count” by William Turner Huggett (1973) - Vietnam War
$ 13.2
Description
Rare First Edition: “Body Count” by William Turner Huggett (1973) - Vietnam War. Dive into one of the most authentic and gripping Vietnam War novels ever written with this first edition hardcover of Body Count by William Turner Huggett, published by G.P. Putnam’s Sons in 1973. Based on the author’s real experiences as a U.S. Marine officer with the 3rd Marine Division in 1968-1969 (where he earned the Bronze Star with “V” for Valor), this powerful story follows a young lieutenant’s brutal transformation amid the chaos of combat, racial tensions, and the relentless “body count” obsession of the war. Dive into one of the most authentic and gripping Vietnam War novels ever written with this first edition hardcover of Body Count by William Turner Huggett, published by G.P. Putnam’s Sons in 1973. Based on the author’s real experiences as a U.S. Marine officer with the 3rd Marine Division in 1968-1969 (where he earned the Bronze Star with “V” for Valor), this powerful story follows a young lieutenant’s brutal transformation amid the chaos of combat, racial tensions, and the relentless “body count” obsession of the war. Huggett’s raw, unflinching prose captures the fears, obsessions, and heroism of Marines in the jungles—praised by veterans as more realistic than many later films like Platoon or Full Metal Jacket . This edition proudly bears the Putnam $15,000 Award for outstanding merit , a rare distinction that guaranteed reader satisfaction (with the original publisher’s bold refund promise if unsatisfied!). It’s a cornerstone of Vietnam literature, blending intense action with profound insights into the human cost of war. Condition: Good to Very Good. The iconic camouflage-patterned boards (featuring a Marine emblem and yellow lettering) show some edge wear and minor rubbing from age, but remain sturdy and attractive. Interior pages are clean and unmarked, with no foxing, tears, or odors—tight binding and solid hinges. The dust jacket is present but shows moderate wear: shallow chips at spine ends, some creasing, and light soiling (protected in a removable mylar sleeve for preservation). No previous owner names except for a neat inscription on the front endpaper: “Donald B. Frager, 49 Gould St., Verona, N.J. 07044” (appears to be an original address label—adds a touch of history without detracting). 445 pages, 8vo size. SBN 399-11126-3, Library of Congress Catalog Card Number 72-97297. Printed in the U.S.A. A true collector’s piece for military history buffs, Vietnam veterans, or fans of gritty war fiction. Scarce in this award-winning first printing—don’t miss it!
