The Special ABA Uncorrected Advanced Proof of Thinner is one of the scarcest and most desirable pre‑publication states associated with Stephen King’s Bachman‑era work. Produced by New American Library (NAL) exclusively for distribution at the American Booksellers Association convention in 1984, this proof predates the trade first edition and was never made available to the public.
This state is identifiable by its distinctive black wrapper, designed to echo the final dust jacket while including publisher‑only promotional text, a pre‑publication release date, and print‑run information not found on any retail edition. Because these ABA proofs were printed in very small quantities—likely only a few hundred copies—and distributed only to booksellers and industry insiders, surviving examples are exceptionally scarce, especially in clean condition. Among Bachman collectibles, this is considered one of the key pre‑publication artifacts, highly sought after by serious King collectors. This proof is being offered in very good condition.