The points of issue
Harcourt, Brace & Company first edition, 1948; 'first edition' stated on the copyright page; introduction by Robert Penn Warren; collects seven stories; first-issue dust jacket with the original printed flap price. This is Taylor's first book.
Is this the true first?
The US Harcourt, Brace edition is the true first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The stated 'first edition' appears on the true first; later or club-style copies typically lack the original priced jacket and may bear a blind-stamp.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of A Long Fourth and Other Stories a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Harcourt, Brace & Company first edition, 1948; 'first edition' stated on the copyright page; introduction by Robert Penn Warren; collects seven stories; first-issue dust jacket with the original printed flap price. This is Taylor's first book.
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 Harcourt, Brace edition is the true first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The stated 'first edition' appears on the true first; later or club-style copies typically lack the original priced jacket and may bear a blind-stamp.
I have a first edition of A Long Fourth and Other Stories — 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.