The points of issue
First printing. Uncle Fred novel. Published 20 June 1958 by Herbert Jenkins, London, preceding the US Simon & Schuster edition of 24 July 1958.
Is this the true first?
UK Herbert Jenkins edition (20 June 1958) is the true first, about a month ahead of the US Simon & Schuster edition (24 July 1958).
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club issue noted.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Cocktail Time a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing. Uncle Fred novel. Published 20 June 1958 by Herbert Jenkins, London, preceding the US Simon & Schuster edition of 24 July 1958.
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 Herbert Jenkins edition (20 June 1958) is the true first, about a month ahead of the US Simon & Schuster edition (24 July 1958).
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club issue noted.
I have a first edition of Cocktail Time — 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.