The points of issue
First Warner Books hardcover with 'First Printing: May 1987' on the copyright page and a complete number line descending to 1; priced jacket on the front flap. Cover illustration by Enric, jacket design by Don Puckey. First of the Xenogenesis (Lilith's Brood) trilogy.
Is this the true first?
The US Warner hardcover is the true first. Warner also issued a simultaneous trade paperback; the hardcover has collecting priority. The UK Victor Gollancz edition (1987) follows.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The Science Fiction Book Club printing is smaller, carries an unpriced 'Book Club Edition' jacket and a blindstamp on the rear board, and lacks the Warner 'First Printing: May 1987' line and number line.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Dawn a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First Warner Books hardcover with 'First Printing: May 1987' on the copyright page and a complete number line descending to 1; priced jacket on the front flap. Cover illustration by Enric, jacket design by Don Puckey. First of the Xenogenesis (Lilith's Brood) trilogy.
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 Warner hardcover is the true first. Warner also issued a simultaneous trade paperback; the hardcover has collecting priority. The UK Victor Gollancz edition (1987) follows.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The Science Fiction Book Club printing is smaller, carries an unpriced 'Book Club Edition' jacket and a blindstamp on the rear board, and lacks the Warner 'First Printing: May 1987' line and number line.
I have a first edition of Dawn — 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.