The points of issue
US William Morrow hardcover published September 20, 2005, with First Edition stated and a full number line; UK Headline hardcover also 2005. Signed US firsts are common from Gaiman's extensive tour signings.
Is this the true first?
US Morrow and UK Headline both 2005; generally treated as co-firsts, with the US Morrow the standard collected edition.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings differ; a first printing requires the complete number line.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Anansi Boys a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: US William Morrow hardcover published September 20, 2005, with First Edition stated and a full number line; UK Headline hardcover also 2005. Signed US firsts are common from Gaiman's extensive tour signings.
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 Morrow and UK Headline both 2005; generally treated as co-firsts, with the US Morrow the standard collected edition.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings differ; a first printing requires the complete number line.
I have a first edition of Anansi Boys — 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.