Lovelace's novelization of the 1933 film is an interesting read, since it sheds some light on earlier versions of the story that did not end up making it to the screen. The books moves with a breezy pace much like the film, but doesn't have the majesty or gravity of that classic. Fascinating for fans of the film, however, and definitely worth the few short hours it will take anyone to read it. ( )

The slipcover was illustrated by Glenn Cravath, and for collectors represents the majority of value in locating an original hardcover.

The speciman at top is from Glenn Cravath's own archive, and was accompanied by a copy of a July 17, 1933 letter he sent to publisher Grosset & Dunlap requesting one-half of his $100 fee. The other $50 was to be paid by RKO. Whether or not this version was ever actually printed and published is unknown.

http://www.skullisland.net/Kongnoveli... ( )

Fairly standard reprint issued in time to take advantage of Kong-mania surrounding the DeLaurentiis remake. Exterior painting - - looks like a rush job - - by Walter Papp, who also did a few covers for the STARTLING STORIES pulp.

Interior art is unsigned; approximately 14 stipple-type drawings, some of which are particularly evocative.

http://www.skullisland.net/Kongnoveli... ( )

Very nearly a coloring book in look and feel, this large format paperback includes minimal text and illustrations on each page by artist Richard Powers. Obviously coordinated with the hardcover above, as each illustration from the larger book is slavishly re-created in a loose-line style by Powers (or it might be the other way around).

http://www.skullisland.net/Kongnoveli... ( )