The points of issue
First US edition, cloth in dust jacket; first printing stated by number line/printing statement on the copyright page. A signed limited edition was also issued (slipcased), which is the premium state.
Is this the true first?
Holt, Rinehart and Winston US (1981) is the first American trade edition; John Calder issued the UK edition (1981). A signed/numbered limited exists. Confirm the first-printing statement.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Not a book club. Distinguish the trade first (number line/printing statement) from the signed limited; verify imprint for US vs. UK.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Cities of the Red Night a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First US edition, cloth in dust jacket; first printing stated by number line/printing statement on the copyright page. A signed limited edition was also issued (slipcased), which is the premium state.
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. Holt, Rinehart and Winston US (1981) is the first American trade edition; John Calder issued the UK edition (1981). A signed/numbered limited exists. Confirm the first-printing statement.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Not a book club. Distinguish the trade first (number line/printing statement) from the signed limited; verify imprint for US vs. UK.
I have a first edition of Cities of the Red Night — 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.