The points of issue
Published by The World Publishing Company (New York and Cleveland) in 1968 under the pseudonym 'Jeffery Hudson.' First printing has no later-printing statement; first-issue dust jacket carries the printed price on the flap. Crichton's award-winning debut novel. Winner of the Edgar Award for Best Novel (1969).
Is this the true first?
The US World Publishing edition (1968, as Jeffery Hudson) is the true first. Later editions reattributed to Michael Crichton are first-thus, not the true first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club editions are common; the Crichton-bylined reissues are not the true first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of A Case of Need a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Published by The World Publishing Company (New York and Cleveland) in 1968 under the pseudonym 'Jeffery Hudson.' First printing has no later-printing statement; first-issue dust jacket carries the printed price on the flap. Crichton's award-winning debut novel. Winner of the Edgar Award for Best Novel (1969).
How do I tell the first printing from a later one?
Check the copyright page for the publisher's first-printing convention and confirm the points above. The US World Publishing edition (1968, as Jeffery Hudson) is the true first. Later editions reattributed to Michael Crichton are first-thus, not the true first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club editions are common; the Crichton-bylined reissues are not the true first.
I have a first edition of A Case of Need — what should I do?
If you're clearing books, New Mexico Literacy Project offers free pickup in Albuquerque, any condition, and makes sure collectible copies aren't lost. To sell, see the author's collecting guide. Either way, nothing valuable ends up in a landfill.