The points of issue
First edition of this collection of short stories, published by William Heinemann (UK) in 1947, preceding the Doubleday first American edition of 1947.
Is this the true first?
UK Heinemann is the true first; the Doubleday US edition (1947) is the first American edition.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club issue noted for the first appearance.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Creatures of Circumstance a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition of this collection of short stories, published by William Heinemann (UK) in 1947, preceding the Doubleday first American edition of 1947.
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 Heinemann is the true first; the Doubleday US edition (1947) is the first American edition.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club issue noted for the first appearance.
I have a first edition of Creatures of Circumstance — 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.