The points of issue
First printing, Vanguard Press, New York, 1956. Omnibus gathering of previously published Farrell short stories (first-thus collection).
Is this the true first?
US first-thus (Vanguard, 1956); the individual stories appeared earlier in prior collections.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings stated; the 1956 Vanguard hardcover is the first appearance of this omnibus gathering.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of An Omnibus of Short Stories a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing, Vanguard Press, New York, 1956. Omnibus gathering of previously published Farrell short stories (first-thus collection).
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-thus (Vanguard, 1956); the individual stories appeared earlier in prior collections.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings stated; the 1956 Vanguard hardcover is the first appearance of this omnibus gathering.
I have a first edition of An Omnibus of Short Stories — 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.