The points of issue
"FIRST PRINTING" stated on the copyright page; Capote's second book, a story collection in black cloth. First-issue jacket priced on the front flap.
Is this the true first?
US first edition, preceding the Heinemann London edition of the following year.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Issues lacking the stated "FIRST PRINTING" are not the true first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of A Tree of Night and Other Stories a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: "FIRST PRINTING" stated on the copyright page; Capote's second book, a story collection in black cloth. First-issue jacket priced on the front flap.
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 first edition, preceding the Heinemann London edition of the following year.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Issues lacking the stated "FIRST PRINTING" are not the true first.
I have a first edition of A Tree of Night 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.