The points of issue
Phantasia hardcover, trade issue plus a signed/numbered limited issue with limitation page; single printing.
Is this the true first?
US Phantasia Press hardcover (spring 1985) is the true first; the DAW paperback followed in October 1985.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
A later book club hardcover exists; it lacks the Phantasia limitation/colophon and should not be confused with the Phantasia first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Cuckoo's Egg a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Phantasia hardcover, trade issue plus a signed/numbered limited issue with limitation page; single printing.
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 Phantasia Press hardcover (spring 1985) is the true first; the DAW paperback followed in October 1985.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
A later book club hardcover exists; it lacks the Phantasia limitation/colophon and should not be confused with the Phantasia first.
I have a first edition of Cuckoo's Egg — 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.