The points of issue
First American edition, Simon & Schuster, New York, 1964; UK Methuen edition also 1964. Both editions are dated 1964.
Is this the true first?
Both the US Simon & Schuster and UK Methuen editions appeared in 1964 and some sources indicate near-simultaneous publication. The US edition is the standard American first, but firm precedence over the UK Methuen edition is not bibliographically established.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club issue noted.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of A Single Man a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First American edition, Simon & Schuster, New York, 1964; UK Methuen edition also 1964. Both editions are dated 1964.
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. Both the US Simon & Schuster and UK Methuen editions appeared in 1964 and some sources indicate near-simultaneous publication. The US edition is the standard American first, but firm precedence over the UK Methuen edition is not bibliographically established.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club issue noted.
I have a first edition of A Single Man — 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.