The points of issue
First printing states 'First published by the Viking Press in September, 1948' on the copyright page with no later-printing reference; oblong format, full tan cloth with the blue Sal illustration matching the jacket, blue duotone illustrations, with the original price present on the jacket flap.
Is this the true first?
US Viking Press 1948 is the true first; a 1949 Caldecott Honor. (Make Way for Ducklings is already in the live index; this is a distinct McCloskey title.)
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club editions carry a blind-stamp and are unpriced; later printings drop the 'First published by the Viking Press in September, 1948' statement.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Blueberries for Sal a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing states 'First published by the Viking Press in September, 1948' on the copyright page with no later-printing reference; oblong format, full tan cloth with the blue Sal illustration matching the jacket, blue duotone illustrations, with the original price present on the jacket flap.
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 Viking Press 1948 is the true first; a 1949 Caldecott Honor. (Make Way for Ducklings is already in the live index; this is a distinct McCloskey title.)
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club editions carry a blind-stamp and are unpriced; later printings drop the 'First published by the Viking Press in September, 1948' statement.
I have a first edition of Blueberries for Sal — 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.