The points of issue
Harcourt, Brace & World first edition is identified by the publisher's first-edition letter code on the copyright page, in first-issue cloth and jacket. Won the 1966 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction. A Jonathan Cape (London) edition appeared in 1964.
Is this the true first?
The Jonathan Cape UK edition of 1964 precedes the US printing and is the true world first. However, the US Harcourt, Brace & World 1965 edition adds four previously uncollected stories and a preface by Porter, and is the edition for which the Pulitzer was awarded, so collectors distinguish the two by which text they want.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club copies may carry a blind-stamp; later printings alter the copyright-page letter code. Confirm the first state by the unbroken first-edition letter code.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Collected Stories of Katherine Anne Porter a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Harcourt, Brace & World first edition is identified by the publisher's first-edition letter code on the copyright page, in first-issue cloth and jacket. Won the 1966 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction. A Jonathan Cape (London) edition appeared in 1964.
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 Jonathan Cape UK edition of 1964 precedes the US printing and is the true world first. However, the US Harcourt, Brace & World 1965 edition adds four previously uncollected stories and a preface by Porter, and is the edition for which the Pulitzer was awarded, so collectors distinguish the two b
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club copies may carry a blind-stamp; later printings alter the copyright-page letter code. Confirm the first state by the unbroken first-edition letter code.
I have a first edition of Collected Stories of Katherine Anne Porter — 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.