The Eagle Has Landed.

First American edition of this classic work, which has sold over 50 million copies and basis for the 1976 film starring Michael Caine, Donald Sutherland and Robert Duvall. Octavo, original cloth, Association copy, inscribed by the author on the front free endpaper, "To Mary Stewart Kind regards from Jack Higgins 14th October 1978" and additionally signed by Sir Michael Caine on the title page. The recipient, Mary Stewart was a British novelist who developed the romantic mystery genre, featuring smart, adventurous heroines who could hold their own in dangerous situations. She also wrote children's books and poetry, but may be best known for her Merlin series, which straddles the boundary between the historical novel and fantasy. Near fine in a near fine dust jacket. Sir Michael Caine has appeared in more than 160 films over a career spanning eight decades. Caine rose to prominence in the 1960s with roles in films like 'Zulu' (1964) and 'Alfie' (1966), for which he received his first Academy Award nomination. He gained international fame with his portrayal of secret agent Harry Palmer in the spy film series that began with 'The Ipcress File' (1965). However, it was his roles in iconic films such as 'The Italian Job' (1969), 'Get Carter' (1971), and 'The Eagle Has Landed' (1976) that solidified his status as one of Britain's most prominent actors. Caine's career continued to flourish in the 1980s and 1990s with films like 'Educating Rita' (1983), 'Hannah and Her Sisters' (1986), 'The Quiet American' (2002), and 'The Dark Knight Trilogy' (2005-2012), where he portrayed Alfred Pennyworth, Batman's loyal butler. In the 2000 Birthday Honours Caine was knighted (as Sir Maurice Micklewhite CBE) by Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace for his contributions to cinema. Rare and desirable.