Author, editor, and Civil War historian whose story "The Greatest Gift," published in 1943, inspired the classic film It's a Wonderful Life. Signed book: The Greatest Gift. Later printing. NY: David McKay Company, 1944. Hardcover with dustjacket, 4.75 x 6.75, 31 pages. Signed and inscribed on the half-title page, “For John Schulman—with much admiration and gratitude from the author, Philip Van Doren Stern.” In fine condition, with a mild shade of toning to signed page, and a bit of scattered light wear to dustjacket. RRAuction COA.