The points of issue
Mustard decorative cloth boards blocked in black and cream; full number line descending to 1 with Cape 'First published' statement. Issued without a conventional dust jacket: in its place a wraparound advertising band carrying the 17.99 net price. Booker-shortlisted.
Is this the true first?
UK Cape (2005) precedes US Knopf (2006).
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Reprints state the later impression.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Arthur & George a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Mustard decorative cloth boards blocked in black and cream; full number line descending to 1 with Cape 'First published' statement. Issued without a conventional dust jacket: in its place a wraparound advertising band carrying the 17.99 net price. Booker-shortlisted.
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. UK Cape (2005) precedes US Knopf (2006).
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Reprints state the later impression.
I have a first edition of Arthur & George — 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.