The points of issue
New English Library (UK) paperback original. Bibliographic records and dealer catalogues date the NEL first edition to 1986, though a 1985 date (from the copyright) is often cited. There is no 1985 or 1986 hardcover; the first hardcover was Kinnell (UK) in 1992.
Is this the true first?
The NEL UK paperback original is the true first; later editions include the 1992 Kinnell UK hardcover and subsequent Headline and US reprints.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
A paperback original, so book club hardcovers are not a concern. Do not mistake the 1992 Kinnell hardcover for the first edition.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Allhallow's Eve a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: New English Library (UK) paperback original. Bibliographic records and dealer catalogues date the NEL first edition to 1986, though a 1985 date (from the copyright) is often cited. There is no 1985 or 1986 hardcover; the first hardcover was Kinnell (UK) in 1992.
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 NEL UK paperback original is the true first; later editions include the 1992 Kinnell UK hardcover and subsequent Headline and US reprints.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
A paperback original, so book club hardcovers are not a concern. Do not mistake the 1992 Kinnell hardcover for the first edition.
I have a first edition of Allhallow's Eve — 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.