The points of issue
First printing; a verse novel in the manner of Byron's 'Don Juan,' completed shortly before Burgess's death and published posthumously. UK Hutchinson 1995 is the first edition; a US Carroll & Graf edition followed in 1997.
Is this the true first?
UK Hutchinson 1995 true first (published September 1995, posthumously); US Carroll & Graf 1997.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Posthumous; no book-club issue.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Byrne a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing; a verse novel in the manner of Byron's 'Don Juan,' completed shortly before Burgess's death and published posthumously. UK Hutchinson 1995 is the first edition; a US Carroll & Graf edition followed in 1997.
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 Hutchinson 1995 true first (published September 1995, posthumously); US Carroll & Graf 1997.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Posthumous; no book-club issue.
I have a first edition of Byrne — 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.