The points of issue
St. Martin's hardcover with First Edition stated on the copyright page and a full number line ending in 1; black boards with gilt spine lettering; priced jacket. Patternist series.
Is this the true first?
US St. Martin's hardcover (1984) is the true first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club edition: no jacket price, blind stamp or gutter code.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Clay's Ark a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: St. Martin's hardcover with First Edition stated on the copyright page and a full number line ending in 1; black boards with gilt spine lettering; priced jacket. Patternist series.
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 St. Martin's hardcover (1984) is the true first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club edition: no jacket price, blind stamp or gutter code.
I have a first edition of Clay's Ark — 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.