The points of issue
Doubleday copyright page states 'FIRST EDITION' with a full number line descending to 1; Doubleday anchor colophon. Bender's first novel, following her 1998 story collection. A true first carries the unclipped flap price.
Is this the true first?
US Doubleday hardcover (2000) is the true first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club editions omit the number line and the flap price and may carry a rear-board blind stamp.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of An Invisible Sign of My Own a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Doubleday copyright page states 'FIRST EDITION' with a full number line descending to 1; Doubleday anchor colophon. Bender's first novel, following her 1998 story collection. A true first carries the unclipped flap price.
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 Doubleday hardcover (2000) is the true first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club editions omit the number line and the flap price and may carry a rear-board blind stamp.
I have a first edition of An Invisible Sign of My Own — 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.