The points of issue
Knopf states 'First Edition' on the copyright page accompanied by the Borzoi colophon, with no later-printing notation. Original cloth binding; jacket design by Wendell Minor.
Is this the true first?
The US Knopf printing (October 1969) is the true first. Less collected than Revolutionary Road; confirm the stated 'First Edition' line with the Borzoi device.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Knopf first printings of this era state 'First Edition'; later printings drop that statement and add a printing record.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of A Special Providence a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Knopf states 'First Edition' on the copyright page accompanied by the Borzoi colophon, with no later-printing notation. Original cloth binding; jacket design by Wendell Minor.
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 Knopf printing (October 1969) is the true first. Less collected than Revolutionary Road; confirm the stated 'First Edition' line with the Borzoi device.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Knopf first printings of this era state 'First Edition'; later printings drop that statement and add a printing record.
I have a first edition of A Special Providence — 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.