Harold Matson (February 26, 1898 – January 5, 1988[1]) was an American literary agent and founder of the Harold Matson Company. His clients included Evelyn Waugh, C. S. Forester, Arthur Koestler, Malcolm Lowry, William Saroyan,[1] Allen Drury, Robert Ruark, Herman Wouk, Evan S. Connell, Flannery O'Connor and Richard Condon.[2]
Early life
editMatson was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan and grew up in San Francisco.[1]
Career
editThe New York Times called Matson "one of the most influential figures in book publishing."[1] The $106,000 sale of the paperback rights to Robert Ruark's novel Something of Value set a record at the time.[1] On his death, Ruark left his Rolls-Royce car to Matson.[3]
References
edit- ^ a b c d e McDowell, Edwin (January 6, 1988). "Harold Matson, Literary Agent for Major Authors". The New York Times. Retrieved November 4, 2009.
- ^ McDowell, Edwin (May 1, 1986). "Matson, 88, Still a Tiger as an Agent". The New York Times. p. C19.
- ^ "Robert Ruark Left Estate In Britain Put at $66,950". The New York Times. January 6, 1966. p. 17.