Key Facts
- ✓ The edition is limited to 750 copies worldwide.
- ✓ It features illustrations by artist David Hughes.
- ✓ The set includes a replica of Patrick Bateman's business card.
- ✓ Preorders open on February 3.
- ✓ The price is £450 / US $640.
Quick Summary
The Folio Society has revealed a luxurious new edition of the classic novel American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis. This release marks the latest addition to the publisher's lineup of illustrated hardcover books. The edition is strictly limited to 750 copies worldwide, making it a highly collectible item for fans of the darkly comedic novel.
Created in collaboration with artist David Hughes, the book features extensive illustrations. The set includes a custom box, frontispiece, endpapers, and ten interior illustrations. A standout feature of the collection is a replica of the business card belonging to the novel's protagonist, Patrick Bateman. This item references a memorable scene from both the original text and the 2000 film adaptation starring Christian Bale.
The Limited Edition Release
The Folio Society is releasing a 512-page hardcover edition of American Psycho. This version is distinct from standard printings due to its limited nature and exclusive accessories. The publisher has commissioned artist David Hughes to provide the artwork for this release. His contributions cover the exterior and interior of the book, ensuring a cohesive visual experience.
The specific visual elements included in the set are:
- A custom designed box
- Frontispiece artwork
- Decorated endpapers
- Ten interior illustrations
Perhaps the most sought-after item included in the set is the replica business card. This accessory mimics the card belonging to the novel's protagonist, Patrick Bateman. The card is a direct reference to a famous scene that appears in both the Bret Easton Ellis novel and the 2000 movie adaptation.
"One of the most controversial and talked-about novels of all time, American Psycho has become more prophetic than ever as it charts the rise of narcissistic sociopaths in 1980s Wall Street—the sort of people that we're now seeing going to the top of US politics."
— James Rose, Head of Editorial at Folio
Editorial Perspective
James Rose, the Head of Editorial at Folio, provided commentary on the selection of American Psycho for this treatment. He highlighted the publisher's success with modern cult novels and identified this title as a prime example. Rose emphasized the novel's status as one of the most controversial and discussed books in history.
Rose stated, "One of the most controversial and talked-about novels of all time, American Psycho has become more prophetic than ever as it charts the rise of narcissistic sociopaths in 1980s Wall Street—the sort of people that we're now seeing going to the top of US politics." He also praised the illustrator's approach to the material. "Artist David Hughes is brave enough to tackle some of the more ghastly scenes, but always with a tongue-in-cheek sense of humour and a keen eye on the novel's satire."
Regarding the collaboration between the author and the artist, Rose concluded, "By marrying Bret Easton Ellis' divisive and dangerous text with David Hughes' funny and disturbing illustrations, this will be the perfect edition of the iconic and brilliant satire."
Pricing and Availability
The Folio Society edition of American Psycho carries a retail price of £450 in the United Kingdom and US $640 in the United States. This pricing reflects the limited production run and the inclusion of the replica accessories.
Customers interested in acquiring a copy can begin the purchasing process in early February. Preorders are scheduled to open on February 3. These orders will be processed exclusively through the official website of The Folio Society.
Film Adaptation Update
Beyond the literary world, American Psycho is also seeing movement in the film industry. The article notes that a film reboot is currently in development. Director Luca Guadagnino is overseeing this new adaptation of the Bret Easton Ellis story.
Regarding the casting for the lead role of Patrick Bateman, Austin Butler is among the actors being considered. However, the report clarifies that despite previous speculation, the new film will not be changing the gender of the protagonist. Patrick Bateman will remain a male character in this upcoming iteration.
"Artist David Hughes is brave enough to tackle some of the more ghastly scenes, but always with a tongue-in-cheek sense of humour and a keen eye on the novel's satire."
— James Rose, Head of Editorial at Folio
"By marrying Bret Easton Ellis' divisive and dangerous text with David Hughes' funny and disturbing illustrations, this will be the perfect edition of the iconic and brilliant satire."
— James Rose, Head of Editorial at Folio
