McKINLEY, Robin. The Hero and the Crown. NY: Greenwillow [1985]. 8vo, [x] 246pp. White quarter-cloth stamped in gold with light green boards decoratively blindstamped. Light green endpapers. Spine ends minutely rubbed else a fine copy in original color pictorial dust jacket (no medal affixed). Signed by the author, Robin McKinley.

First edition. 1986 Newbery Medal Winner! Though Aerin is the daughter of the Damarian King, her people mistrust her because her mother was a northern witchwoman.  It is only after she slays the giant dragon, Maur, and comes to the rescue of Damar – with the aid of the Wizard Luthe and the mystical Blue Sword – that she finally earns her peoples respect and her true birthright.  A "prequel" to the Newbery Honor-winning The Blue Sword.