8 Letters Steinbeck helping Dennis Murphy Writer

Collection of 8 Letters Between John Steinbeck, John Murphy, and Dennis Murphy in which Steinbeck helps Dennis Murphy get his start as a writer eventually winning the Joseph Henry Jackson Award. First Letter - Dated May 16, 1956 is a carbon typescript of a letter John Steinbeck wrote to John Murphy, John Steinbeck's childhood friend wrote responding to a request to read his sons Dennis' story and give guidence on getting published (original, signed is at Stanford University) Second letter, dated May 23rd 1956 is the original letter from John Murphy to John Steinbeck sending his Denny's story, talking about their old hometown and thanking him for his efforts on Denny's behalf. Third letter, dated May 26, 1956, from John Steinbeck to Denny - Signed John 2 and a hald pages praising his writing, but also warning him on the difficultites of becoming a writier. Forth Letter, dated May 27th 1956, is to Elizabeth Otis (John Steinbecks editor) from John Steinbeck , saying to please read Denny's work and see what she thinks. Fifth letter, dated June 10, 1956 from Dennis Murphy to John Steinbeck, thanking him for all he has done. You must read the last paragraph about the magic of John's pen! Sixth letter, not dated is from Dennis Murphy to John Steinbeck. Dennis is telling John he is continuing to work on his book and that he "is beginning to realize, is quite a statement." He also invites John and Elaine to his place if they are ever in the area. Seventh letter, Dennis Murphy writes that the book is done and asks for John Steinbeck help once again for a letter of recommendation for the Joseph Henry Jackson Award. The eighth letter, February 20, 1957 is from John Steinbeck to Dennis Murphy delighted that the book is done and hopes to see it soon. He also cautioned to not get the hopes on the award as when Steinbeck was in need of money, he never won any. Attached is also the letter of recommendation that John wrote for Dennis for the Joseph Henry Jackson Award. After reading this story, we researched and found out that Dennis Murphy did become a writer and was the first winner of the Joseph Henry Jackson awar. Dennis Murphy was a screenwriter and author known for his 1958 best selling book "The Sergeant". Provenance: The Estate of John and Elaine Steinbeck