The points of issue
First edition, published by Berkley Publishing and distributed by G.P. Putnam's Sons, 1976. First printing has a first-printing statement on the copyright page and a priced dust jacket. The text was first serialized in Analog earlier in 1976.
Is this the true first?
The US Berkley/Putnam 1976 edition is generally regarded as the first hardcover. The UK Gollancz edition also appeared in 1976.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Science Fiction Book Club editions, identifiable by a blindstamp to the rear board and no flap price, are common and inexpensive and are not the true first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Children of Dune a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition, published by Berkley Publishing and distributed by G.P. Putnam's Sons, 1976. First printing has a first-printing statement on the copyright page and a priced dust jacket. The text was first serialized in Analog earlier in 1976.
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 Berkley/Putnam 1976 edition is generally regarded as the first hardcover. The UK Gollancz edition also appeared in 1976.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Science Fiction Book Club editions, identifiable by a blindstamp to the rear board and no flap price, are common and inexpensive and are not the true first.
I have a first edition of Children of Dune — 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.