The points of issue
US William Morrow first edition, 2004, with the 'FIRST EDITION' statement and a number line ending in 1. Won the 2005 Edgar Award for Best Novel; Parker's second Edgar Best Novel after Silent Joe.
Is this the true first?
The US Morrow 2004 edition is the true first; UK editions are later.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings drop the 1 from the number line. Book-club issues lack the dust-jacket price.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of California Girl a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: US William Morrow first edition, 2004, with the 'FIRST EDITION' statement and a number line ending in 1. Won the 2005 Edgar Award for Best Novel; Parker's second Edgar Best Novel after Silent Joe.
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 Morrow 2004 edition is the true first; UK editions are later.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings drop the 1 from the number line. Book-club issues lack the dust-jacket price.
I have a first edition of California Girl — 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.