The points of issue
First printing with no later-printing statement on the copyright page. Wouk's debut novel (full title 'Aurora Dawn, or, The True History of Andrew Reale').
Is this the true first?
US Simon & Schuster is the true first; a UK Jonathan Cape edition followed.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later reprints are noted on the copyright page.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Aurora Dawn a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing with no later-printing statement on the copyright page. Wouk's debut novel (full title 'Aurora Dawn, or, The True History of Andrew Reale').
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 Simon & Schuster is the true first; a UK Jonathan Cape edition followed.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later reprints are noted on the copyright page.
I have a first edition of Aurora Dawn — 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.