The points of issue
First edition, first printing is the Ace trade paperback original, illustrated by Esteban Maroto, in pictorial wrappers with the cover price printed. There is no priced Ace trade hardcover; the only hardcover is a book club issue.
Is this the true first?
US Ace illustrated trade paperback original is the true first edition.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
A Science Fiction Book Club hardcover was issued in 1980 (black boards, blue spine lettering, gutter code K25 on page 250 for a June 1980 printing); it is a book club edition, not a true first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Changeling a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition, first printing is the Ace trade paperback original, illustrated by Esteban Maroto, in pictorial wrappers with the cover price printed. There is no priced Ace trade hardcover; the only hardcover is a book club issue.
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 Ace illustrated trade paperback original is the true first edition.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
A Science Fiction Book Club hardcover was issued in 1980 (black boards, blue spine lettering, gutter code K25 on page 250 for a June 1980 printing); it is a book club edition, not a true first.
I have a first edition of Changeling — 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.