*British, 1965, Gilles Perrault – The Secrets of D-Day – Uncorrected Proof Copy, Arthur Barker*
A scarce 1965 uncorrected proof copy of The Secrets of D-Day by Gilles Perrault, translated from the French by Len Ortzen and published by Arthur Barker Limited, London.
This example is the pre-publication proof issue, produced prior to the official first edition release and intended for reviewers, booksellers, and publishing circulation. The original yellow printed proof wrapper is present with the distinctive repeating “Arthur Barker” publisher’s background design and clearly printed details including “Uncorrected Proof Copy,” probable published price of 25s net, and probable publication date of May 14th, 1965.
The title examines the intelligence operations, deception plans, espionage networks, and strategic misdirection surrounding Operation Overlord and the Allied D-Day landings. Gilles Perrault’s work became well regarded for its detailed treatment of the Allied deception campaign and German intelligence failures leading up to June 1944.
Internally the title page confirms Arthur Barker Limited, 20 New Bond Street, London W1, with copyright dates 1964 (French edition) and English translation copyright 1965. Printed by C. Tinling & Co. Ltd., Liverpool, London and Prescot. The book runs to 238 pages.
Proof copies such as this are notably scarcer than standard first editions, often surviving in far smaller numbers and sometimes containing textual variations before final correction and release. These are particularly desirable to collectors of military history, publishing history, and D-Day related material.
Approx. Measurements – 14cm x 21.6cm x 2cm.
History Note:
Gilles Perrault (1931–2023) was a noted French writer, journalist, and historian, particularly respected for his investigative and military history works. The Secrets of D-Day (originally published in French in 1964) examined the vast Allied deception operations surrounding Operation Overlord, including double agents, false intelligence networks, and strategic misinformation used to convince German High Command that the main invasion would strike at Pas-de-Calais rather than Normandy. The work helped popularise public understanding of Operation Fortitude and the intelligence war behind D-Day, making it an important early post-war study of Allied deception strategy. This 1965 Arthur Barker proof copy represents the scarce pre-publication English edition issued before formal release to reviewers and booksellers.
*Condition*
A complete and genuine 1965 Arthur Barker uncorrected proof copy retaining its original yellow printed proof wrapper. The wrapper has been reinforced with old tape along three outer edges to both front and rear covers, with additional tape securing the front and rear endpapers to the cover, a common period repair for fragile proof copies. There is general age wear, creasing, edge rubbing, corner curling, light surface marking, and some spine wear consistent with handling and storage. The pages show mild age toning but remain clean, complete, and fully readable throughout. Despite the repairs, it remains a sound and honest collector’s example of a scarce pre-publication issue. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
JAQ#3180E_1343238316
