The points of issue
First edition 1967, published by Heinemann in London as African Writers Series number 36, bylined 'James Ngugi' (before the author adopted the Gikuyu form of his name). Issued in both cloth and wrappers. The author later revised the text for the 1986 edition, so the 1967 printing carries the original, unrevised text.
Is this the true first?
Heinemann London 1967 is the true first edition with the original text, under the byline 'James Ngugi'. The 1986 Heinemann edition is a revised text and is a separate 'first thus'. The US Macmillan issue follows the London first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
A 1986 revised-text edition, or any copy bylined 'Ngugi wa Thiong'o' rather than 'James Ngugi', indicates a later edition. Distinguish the 1967 original text from the 1986 revision.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of A Grain of Wheat a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition 1967, published by Heinemann in London as African Writers Series number 36, bylined 'James Ngugi' (before the author adopted the Gikuyu form of his name). Issued in both cloth and wrappers. The author later revised the text for the 1986 edition, so the 1967 printing carries the original, unrevised text.
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. Heinemann London 1967 is the true first edition with the original text, under the byline 'James Ngugi'. The 1986 Heinemann edition is a revised text and is a separate 'first thus'. The US Macmillan issue follows the London first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
A 1986 revised-text edition, or any copy bylined 'Ngugi wa Thiong'o' rather than 'James Ngugi', indicates a later edition. Distinguish the 1967 original text from the 1986 revision.
I have a first edition of A Grain of Wheat — 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.