The points of issue
"First Edition" stated per Doubleday convention; Dickey's second novel, following Deliverance. First-issue jacket priced on the front flap.
Is this the true first?
US first edition. The cited Bruccoli & Baughman bibliography entry (A45) supports the Doubleday first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book club issues show a blind-stamp to the rear board and lack the flap price.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Alnilam a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: "First Edition" stated per Doubleday convention; Dickey's second novel, following Deliverance. 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. The cited Bruccoli & Baughman bibliography entry (A45) supports the Doubleday first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book club issues show a blind-stamp to the rear board and lack the flap price.
I have a first edition of Alnilam — 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.