The Wizard of Oz (MGM, 1939), Extraordinary "The Wizard of Oz" Book Signed Twice by Judy Garland with Lengthy Inscript...

Description

Judy Garland, transformed into Dorothy Gale from Kansas, presents a copy of The Wizard of Oz signed by the cast - including Toto's Paw Prints - for the daughter of her tutor.

The Wizard of Oz (MGM, 1939), Extraordinary "The Wizard of Oz" Book Signed Twice by Judy Garland with Lengthy Inscription and Major Cast Including Toto's Paw Prints. Bobbs-Merrill Company, Indianapolis, 1903. Hardcover edition with color plates, 208 pp. The front original end leaf is penned with the major characters' names and signed to the right by the respective cast member: Aunt Em - "Clara Blandick", Wizard - "Frank Morgan", Dorothy - "Judy Garland", Tin Man - "Jack Haley", Lion - "Bert Lahr", Scarecrow - "Ray Bolger", Bad Witch - "Margaret Hamilton". On the same page, Ray Bolger has added in larger script, "To Diane Catherine Best wishes for happy times The Scarecrow [adding a stick figure beside his character's name]"; below which, Charlie Grapewin has signed, "Uncle Henry Charley Grapewin". On page 142, beside a printed image of the Wizard, Frank Morgan has inscribed, "Love to Diane from 'The Great Wizard of Oz' Frank Morgan." On the introduction page is a printed rendering of "Toto" with two ink paw prints of Terry, the female Cairn Terrier who played Dorothy's loyal canine companion, and owner Carl Spitz's signature. Facing the dedication page, Bobbie Koshay, Judy Garland's body double, has inscribed, "Hello Diane: I am that other girl your mummy told you about. I am 'Judy's Copy' and I sure have lots of fun trying to. Hope you enjoy the book. Bye now, 'Bobbie Koshay'". On the blank page facing the opening lines of the book, Judy Garland has written, "For Diane - from what I hear, you must be a very sweet little girl. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did. Playing the part of Dorothy was such fun, and so realistic, that I feel as if I'm not Judy at all, but Dorothy Gale from Kansas. I'm looking forward to meeting you, and hope it will be soon. Always your friend, Judy Garland 'Dorothy'".
Diane Catherine, to whom the book was inscribed, is the daughter of Rose Carter, Judy Garland's private tutor. Excessively rare with incredible sentiment by Garland discussing her portrayal of Dorothy Gale from Kansas in her iconic film role. Book had professional spot restoration in 1990 with title page from another book of the same title inserted at rear. Exhibits expected handling with soiling and toning including a few vintage scattered tape repairs on interior pages. End leaf with cast signatures has 3.5" separation from binding with upper corner repaired. Dust jacket exhibits chipping and paper loss. This Garland and cast signed book is among the pinnacle of Wizard of Oz memorabilia.
This is the single most important Wizard of Oz cast signed book in the world. Judy Garland's heartfelt inscription penned as Dorothy Gale, combined with Toto's pawprints and signature by the Scarecrow, Tinman, Cowardly lion, The Wizard of Oz and Aunt Em and Uncle Henry present a once in a lifetime opportunity to own a piece of Oz.
Full LOA from Beckett Authentication Services and PSA/DNA.

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