The points of issue
True first is Hutchinson (London), 1980, stating 'First published 1980'; cloth boards, dust jacket priced in sterling (an unclipped example is preferred). The UK Hutchinson edition precedes the US Simon & Schuster (New York) 1980 edition.
Is this the true first?
UK Hutchinson 1980 is the true first; the US Simon & Schuster (New York) 1980 edition is a first-thus. Booker-shortlisted; widely regarded as Burgess's magnum opus.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No major book-club edition of note. Confirm the Hutchinson (London) imprint and 'First published 1980' statement versus the US Simon & Schuster printing.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Earthly Powers a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: True first is Hutchinson (London), 1980, stating 'First published 1980'; cloth boards, dust jacket priced in sterling (an unclipped example is preferred). The UK Hutchinson edition precedes the US Simon & Schuster (New York) 1980 edition.
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 Hutchinson 1980 is the true first; the US Simon & Schuster (New York) 1980 edition is a first-thus. Booker-shortlisted; widely regarded as Burgess's magnum opus.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No major book-club edition of note. Confirm the Hutchinson (London) imprint and 'First published 1980' statement versus the US Simon & Schuster printing.
I have a first edition of Earthly Powers — 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.