The points of issue
First printing of the twelve essays. A signed limited edition of 260 copies was also issued by Chatto & Windus.
Is this the true first?
UK Chatto & Windus is the true first; US edition published by Doubleday, Doran, Garden City, also 1929.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Signed limited of 260 copies versus the trade issue; no book-club issue.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Do What You Will a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing of the twelve essays. A signed limited edition of 260 copies was also issued by Chatto & Windus.
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 Chatto & Windus is the true first; US edition published by Doubleday, Doran, Garden City, also 1929.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Signed limited of 260 copies versus the trade issue; no book-club issue.
I have a first edition of Do What You Will — 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.