The points of issue
Little, Brown US first edition; copyright page states First Edition: February 2009 with a complete number line ending in 1.
Is this the true first?
US Little, Brown true first; the UK Quercus edition followed.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book club editions lack the number line and jacket price.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Drood a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Little, Brown US first edition; copyright page states First Edition: February 2009 with a complete number line ending in 1.
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 Little, Brown true first; the UK Quercus edition followed.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book club editions lack the number line and jacket price.
I have a first edition of Drood — 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.