The points of issue
First edition, 1998 stated on the copyright page, accompanied by the FSG-style number line; Farrar, Straus and Giroux (New York) imprint; first-issue dust jacket priced on the front flap.
Is this the true first?
The US FSG hardcover of 1998 is the true first edition. It won the 1998 National Book Award for Fiction.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club editions lack the First edition, 1998 statement and the printed jacket price, are typically smaller and lighter, and may carry a blind stamp to the rear board.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Charming Billy a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition, 1998 stated on the copyright page, accompanied by the FSG-style number line; Farrar, Straus and Giroux (New York) imprint; first-issue dust jacket priced on the front flap.
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 FSG hardcover of 1998 is the true first edition. It won the 1998 National Book Award for Fiction.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club editions lack the First edition, 1998 statement and the printed jacket price, are typically smaller and lighter, and may carry a blind stamp to the rear board.
I have a first edition of Charming Billy — 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.