The points of issue
First edition, published 14 February 1946 in cloth with dust jacket, with a print run of about 3,028 copies. The US edition followed in April 1946 from Reynal & Hitchcock under the different title Dickens, Dali and Others: Studies in Popular Culture.
Is this the true first?
UK Secker & Warburg February 1946 is the true first. The US edition (Reynal & Hitchcock, April 1946) was retitled Dickens, Dali and Others, a title point distinguishing the two.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
US and UK editions carry different titles.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Critical Essays a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition, published 14 February 1946 in cloth with dust jacket, with a print run of about 3,028 copies. The US edition followed in April 1946 from Reynal & Hitchcock under the different title Dickens, Dali and Others: Studies in Popular Culture.
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 Secker & Warburg February 1946 is the true first. The US edition (Reynal & Hitchcock, April 1946) was retitled Dickens, Dali and Others, a title point distinguishing the two.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
US and UK editions carry different titles.
I have a first edition of Critical Essays — 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.