The points of issue
A signed, numbered limited edition of 1,000 copies (in publisher's blue cloth, dark blue top edge, slipcased) precedes the trade edition and is the true first issue. The trade first edition states 'FIRST EDITION' on the copyright page (Random House practice in this era; the statement is removed on later printings) and is in blue cloth with crosses stamped on the boards.
Is this the true first?
US Random House 1954; the signed/numbered limited of 1,000 copies is the true first issue, with the 'FIRST EDITION'-stated trade following. The 1955 Pulitzer and National Book Award winner.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Trade later printings remove the 'FIRST EDITION' statement. Book-club copies are clearly marked.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of A Fable a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: A signed, numbered limited edition of 1,000 copies (in publisher's blue cloth, dark blue top edge, slipcased) precedes the trade edition and is the true first issue. The trade first edition states 'FIRST EDITION' on the copyright page (Random House practice in this era; the statement is removed on later printings) and is in blue cloth with crosses stamped on the boards.
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. US Random House 1954; the signed/numbered limited of 1,000 copies is the true first issue, with the 'FIRST EDITION'-stated trade following. The 1955 Pulitzer and National Book Award winner.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Trade later printings remove the 'FIRST EDITION' statement. Book-club copies are clearly marked.
I have a first edition of A Fable — 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.