The points of issue
First trade edition published by Chapman & Hall, London, in 1932. A signed limited issue of 250 large-paper copies was also produced, signed on the limitation leaf and containing additional illustrations by the author not present in the trade edition.
Is this the true first?
UK Chapman & Hall 1932 is the true first. The signed limited issue of 250 large-paper copies is the premium form. The US edition was published by Farrar & Rinehart in 1932.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Distinction is between the ordinary trade printing and the signed limited large-paper issue of 250 copies.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Black Mischief a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First trade edition published by Chapman & Hall, London, in 1932. A signed limited issue of 250 large-paper copies was also produced, signed on the limitation leaf and containing additional illustrations by the author not present in the trade edition.
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 Chapman & Hall 1932 is the true first. The signed limited issue of 250 large-paper copies is the premium form. The US edition was published by Farrar & Rinehart in 1932.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Distinction is between the ordinary trade printing and the signed limited large-paper issue of 250 copies.
I have a first edition of Black Mischief — 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.