The points of issue
First edition 2005, Greenwillow Books (an imprint of HarperCollins), New York. First printing states 'First Edition' on the copyright page with a complete number line ending in 1; copyright 2005. Pictorial boards; first-state dust jacket has no Newbery seal.
Is this the true first?
US true first edition. Newbery Medal awarded 2006.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
A missing 'First Edition' line or a number line not ending in 1 indicates a later printing; post-award jackets add the Newbery seal; book-club editions lack a price on the flap.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Criss Cross a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition 2005, Greenwillow Books (an imprint of HarperCollins), New York. First printing states 'First Edition' on the copyright page with a complete number line ending in 1; copyright 2005. Pictorial boards; first-state dust jacket has no Newbery seal.
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 true first edition. Newbery Medal awarded 2006.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
A missing 'First Edition' line or a number line not ending in 1 indicates a later printing; post-award jackets add the Newbery seal; book-club editions lack a price on the flap.
I have a first edition of Criss Cross — 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.