The points of issue
Headline, London, 1996 hardcover first British edition; first printing carries a full number line; jacket art by Steve Crisp.
Is this the true first?
UK Headline hardcover is the true first; US editions followed later.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book club and reprint copies lack the full number line; require the complete line and priced jacket.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Bite a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Headline, London, 1996 hardcover first British edition; first printing carries a full number line; jacket art by Steve Crisp.
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 Headline hardcover is the true first; US editions followed later.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book club and reprint copies lack the full number line; require the complete line and priced jacket.
I have a first edition of Bite — 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.