The points of issue
First printing, The Vanguard Press, New York, 1934, 303 pages. Farrell's first story collection, with sixteen stories set on the South Side of Chicago. The dust jacket front flap carries a note cautioning collectors not to overlook the title.
Is this the true first?
US first edition. The collection was later reissued in Britain under the title Seventeen and Other Stories.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings are stated on the copyright page.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Calico Shoes and Other Stories a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing, The Vanguard Press, New York, 1934, 303 pages. Farrell's first story collection, with sixteen stories set on the South Side of Chicago. The dust jacket front flap carries a note cautioning collectors not to overlook the title.
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 first edition. The collection was later reissued in Britain under the title Seventeen and Other Stories.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings are stated on the copyright page.
I have a first edition of Calico Shoes and Other Stories — 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.