The points of issue
First published London by Pluto Press, 1979, in association with the Joint Stock Theatre Group; issued in wrappers with copyright page stating 'First published 1979.' Written for Joint Stock and premiered in 1979. A revised text appeared in later printings, so the 1979 Pluto issue is the earliest.
Is this the true first?
UK Pluto Press 1979 is the true first. A revised text followed (Pluto in the early 1980s, then Methuen) and is a later 'first thus,' and US editions (Routledge/TCG) are later still.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The later revised text differs from the 1979 Pluto first and should not be conflated with it. No book-club issue.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Cloud Nine a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First published London by Pluto Press, 1979, in association with the Joint Stock Theatre Group; issued in wrappers with copyright page stating 'First published 1979.' Written for Joint Stock and premiered in 1979. A revised text appeared in later printings, so the 1979 Pluto issue is the earliest.
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. UK Pluto Press 1979 is the true first. A revised text followed (Pluto in the early 1980s, then Methuen) and is a later 'first thus,' and US editions (Routledge/TCG) are later still.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The later revised text differs from the 1979 Pluto first and should not be conflated with it. No book-club issue.
I have a first edition of Cloud Nine — 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.