The points of issue
First Tor hardcover, 2011; 'First Edition' stated on the copyright page with a full number line ending in 1; priced dust jacket.
Is this the true first?
The US Tor 2011 hardcover is the true first, released in North America first; the UK Corsair edition (2013) is later.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No prominent book club edition. Later printings lack the full number line ending in 1.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Among Others a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First Tor hardcover, 2011; 'First Edition' stated on the copyright page with a full number line ending in 1; priced dust jacket.
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 US Tor 2011 hardcover is the true first, released in North America first; the UK Corsair edition (2013) is later.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No prominent book club edition. Later printings lack the full number line ending in 1.
I have a first edition of Among Others — 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.