The points of issue
Del Rey (Ballantine Books) hardcover, first printing. Copyright page carries a stated 'First Edition' line together with a full number line counting down to 1. Priced dust jacket; publisher's boards. ISBN 0-345-42333-X.
Is this the true first?
The US Del Rey/Ballantine 1999 hardcover is the true first edition. A separate UK HarperCollins edition appeared in 1999 and does not precede the US printing. (Novel won the Nebula Award for Best Novel presented in 2000 for 1999 publication.)
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The Science Fiction Book Club edition is distinguishable by an unpriced jacket, a blind-stamp depression (gutter dot) on the rear board, smaller bulk, and the absence of the Del Rey number line.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Darwin's Radio a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Del Rey (Ballantine Books) hardcover, first printing. Copyright page carries a stated 'First Edition' line together with a full number line counting down to 1. Priced dust jacket; publisher's boards. ISBN 0-345-42333-X.
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 US Del Rey/Ballantine 1999 hardcover is the true first edition. A separate UK HarperCollins edition appeared in 1999 and does not precede the US printing. (Novel won the Nebula Award for Best Novel presented in 2000 for 1999 publication.)
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The Science Fiction Book Club edition is distinguishable by an unpriced jacket, a blind-stamp depression (gutter dot) on the rear board, smaller bulk, and the absence of the Del Rey number line.
I have a first edition of Darwin's Radio — 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.