The points of issue
Knopf first-edition convention: the copyright page states 'First Edition' with no later-printing line; 1973 copyright (ISBN 0-394-48172-0). Decorated coverboards and endpapers; line illustrations by the author. About 285 pp. Jaffrey's first book; later inducted into the James Beard Cookbook Hall of Fame (2006).
Is this the true first?
The US Knopf 1973 is the true first. The UK edition (Jonathan Cape, 1976) is a later 'first thus.' Confirm via the 'First Edition' statement and the original dust jacket, which is often absent on surviving copies.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later Knopf printings drop the 'First Edition' line; the Vintage paperback (ISBN 0-375-71211-9) is a much later reissue. No prominent book-club issue.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of An Invitation to Indian Cooking a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Knopf first-edition convention: the copyright page states 'First Edition' with no later-printing line; 1973 copyright (ISBN 0-394-48172-0). Decorated coverboards and endpapers; line illustrations by the author. About 285 pp. Jaffrey's first book; later inducted into the James Beard Cookbook Hall of Fame (2006).
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 Knopf 1973 is the true first. The UK edition (Jonathan Cape, 1976) is a later 'first thus.' Confirm via the 'First Edition' statement and the original dust jacket, which is often absent on surviving copies.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later Knopf printings drop the 'First Edition' line; the Vintage paperback (ISBN 0-375-71211-9) is a much later reissue. No prominent book-club issue.
I have a first edition of An Invitation to Indian Cooking — 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.