Lay Down My Sword and Shield (1971) Signed First Edition Reference

Lay Down My Sword and Shield was published in 1971, Burke’s third novel and his last before a thirteen-year drought during which he could not get a novel published. The story follows Hack Holland, a Korean War veteran and reluctant Texas politician struggling with alcoholism and moral compromise — themes Burke would revisit throughout his career. Notably, the novel introduces the Holland family, ancestors of Hackberry Holland, who would become the protagonist of Burke’s second major series decades later.

First Edition Identification

Publisher: Thomas Y. Crowell Company, New York Publication date: 1971 Format: Hardcover in dust jacket

Small printing. First editions are identified by the Crowell first edition statement. The book is uncommon in the market, and fine copies with intact dust jackets are scarce.

Signed Copy Market Values

• Signed first edition, fine/fine: $600–$2,000
• Unsigned first edition: $75–$200

The Holland family connection gives this novel added significance for collectors who have followed the Hackberry Holland series. Signed copies are very scarce, as Burke was an unknown literary novelist when this was published. The long gap that followed — during which Burke worked as a social worker, journalist, and teacher — makes this a poignant endpoint of his first act as a novelist.