The points of issue
Octavo; cloth-backed boards with gilt spine lettering; copyright page states 'First published 1992' with the printer's key descending to 1; first-issue dust jacket carries the original UK price unclipped. Booker Prize shortlisted (1992).
Is this the true first?
First published by Jonathan Cape in London in 1992; the US Nan A. Talese / Doubleday edition also appeared in 1992. A signed limited issue (150 numbered copies) was also produced by Cape and should not be confused with the trade first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later Cape impressions revise the printer's key so the lowest digit is no longer 1.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Black Dogs a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Octavo; cloth-backed boards with gilt spine lettering; copyright page states 'First published 1992' with the printer's key descending to 1; first-issue dust jacket carries the original UK price unclipped. Booker Prize shortlisted (1992).
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. First published by Jonathan Cape in London in 1992; the US Nan A. Talese / Doubleday edition also appeared in 1992. A signed limited issue (150 numbered copies) was also produced by Cape and should not be confused with the trade first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later Cape impressions revise the printer's key so the lowest digit is no longer 1.
I have a first edition of Black Dogs — 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.