Description
In the Beauty of the Lilies by John Updike (1997 Ballantine Trade PB, VG). At its heart lies the story of Clarence Wilmot, a minister who loses his faith, and the ripple effects his crisis of belief has on his descendants. This copy is the 1997 Ballantine Books trade paperback first edition, a substantial, well-designed reading copy that balances collectibility with affordability. In the Beauty of the Lilies is one of John Updike’s most sweeping novels, tracing four generations of an American family from 1910 into the modern age. At its heart lies the story of Clarence Wilmot, a minister who loses his faith, and the ripple effects his crisis of belief has on his descendants. The novel explores themes of faith, identity, American culture, and the power of cinema, which serves as both a metaphor and a cultural backdrop across the generations. Many critics consider this one of Updike’s finest achievements, praised for its ambitious scope and lyrical prose. This copy is the 1997 Ballantine Books trade paperback first edition, a substantial, well-designed reading copy that balances collectibility with affordability. --- Condition Very Good (VG). Cover shows light edge and corner wear, minor shelf rubbing. Spine remains strong and uncreased. Interior pages are clean and free of writing or marks. Overall a solid, well-preserved copy.