The points of issue
Trade paperback original (no hardcover first). Issued in the Vintage Contemporaries series with its distinctive cover design; the printed price on the rear wrap; complete number line ending in 1. ISBN 0-394-72641-3. 5-1/4 x 8 inches, 182 pp.
Is this the true first?
The paperback original IS the true first edition — there is no preceding hardcover. Published by Vintage Books, August 12, 1984. McInerney's debut, one of the launch titles of Gary Fisketjon's Vintage Contemporaries line.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
There is no book-club issue. Later Vintage Contemporaries printings lack the 1 in the number line; the the printed price cover price and series presentation confirm the first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Bright Lights, Big City a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Trade paperback original (no hardcover first). Issued in the Vintage Contemporaries series with its distinctive cover design; the printed price on the rear wrap; complete number line ending in 1. ISBN 0-394-72641-3. 5-1/4 x 8 inches, 182 pp.
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 paperback original IS the true first edition — there is no preceding hardcover. Published by Vintage Books, August 12, 1984. McInerney's debut, one of the launch titles of Gary Fisketjon's Vintage Contemporaries line.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
There is no book-club issue. Later Vintage Contemporaries printings lack the 1 in the number line; the the printed price cover price and series presentation confirm the first.
I have a first edition of Bright Lights, Big City — 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.