The points of issue
First edition 1942, Viking (New York). First printing carries the Viking 'First Published 1942' statement on the copyright page with no later printings listed. Illustrations by Robert Lawson; pictorial cloth.
Is this the true first?
US true first. Won the Newbery Medal in 1943.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Viking later printings add further printing statements. Wartime printings on inferior paper still must show the first-printing statement to qualify as a first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Adam of the Road a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition 1942, Viking (New York). First printing carries the Viking 'First Published 1942' statement on the copyright page with no later printings listed. Illustrations by Robert Lawson; pictorial cloth.
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 true first. Won the Newbery Medal in 1943.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Viking later printings add further printing statements. Wartime printings on inferior paper still must show the first-printing statement to qualify as a first.
I have a first edition of Adam of the Road — 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.