The points of issue
First edition, Heinemann, London, 1987 (published December 1987). Boards with dust jacket. Booker-shortlisted. Precedes the first US edition (Anchor Press/Doubleday, 1988).
Is this the true first?
Heinemann London 1987 is the true first; the first US edition, Anchor Press/Doubleday, follows in 1988.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
US edition and later paperbacks are reprints.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Anthills of the Savannah a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition, Heinemann, London, 1987 (published December 1987). Boards with dust jacket. Booker-shortlisted. Precedes the first US edition (Anchor Press/Doubleday, 1988).
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. Heinemann London 1987 is the true first; the first US edition, Anchor Press/Doubleday, follows in 1988.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
US edition and later paperbacks are reprints.
I have a first edition of Anthills of the Savannah — 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.