The points of issue
First printing identified by the publisher's number line descending to 1 on the copyright page. Shaw's last novel.
Is this the true first?
US Arbor House is the true first; a UK New English Library edition also appeared in 1982.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book club editions exist and lack the number line.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Acceptable Losses a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing identified by the publisher's number line descending to 1 on the copyright page. Shaw's last novel.
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 Arbor House is the true first; a UK New English Library edition also appeared in 1982.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book club editions exist and lack the number line.
I have a first edition of Acceptable Losses — 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.