The points of issue
Random House first printing states First Edition / First Printing on the copyright page in the pre-1970 Random House manner (no number line yet on titles of this era); first-issue jacket with the original price on the front flap. Elkin's first book and first novel.
Is this the true first?
The US Random House edition is the true first; the UK edition (Blond, 1966) follows.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The stated first printing is present on the true first; book-club copies omit the flap price and usually carry a Book Club Edition notice and a rear-board blind-stamp.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Boswell: A Modern Comedy a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Random House first printing states First Edition / First Printing on the copyright page in the pre-1970 Random House manner (no number line yet on titles of this era); first-issue jacket with the original price on the front flap. Elkin's first book and first novel.
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. The US Random House edition is the true first; the UK edition (Blond, 1966) follows.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The stated first printing is present on the true first; book-club copies omit the flap price and usually carry a Book Club Edition notice and a rear-board blind-stamp.
I have a first edition of Boswell: A Modern Comedy — 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.