The Beginning Place (1980) Signed First Edition Reference

The Beginning Place is Le Guin’s standalone portal fantasy, published by Harper & Row in 1980. Two young people — Hugh and Irena — discover a twilight world that exists alongside our own. The fantasy world offers relief from their troubled lives but also demands confrontation with dangers that mirror their real-world problems. The novel explores the relationship between fantasy and reality in a way that is both personal and philosophical.

First Edition Identification

Publisher: Harper & Row, New York Publication date: 1980 Format: Hardcover in dust jacket

Signed Copy Market Values

• Signed first edition, fine/fine: $75–$200
• Unsigned first edition: $10–$25

A lesser-known Le Guin fantasy that rewards readers who appreciate her ability to use genre conventions for psychological exploration.