The points of issue
Little, Brown 1977 first printing: copyright page states 'First Edition' with the 'Published' line dated 1977 and no number line (Little, Brown of this era used a stated-edition method, not a number line). First-issue green cloth in priced jacket.
Is this the true first?
US Little, Brown 1977 is the true first. Winner of the 1978 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club editions lack the stated 'First Edition' line and carry a blind-stamp to the rear board with an unpriced jacket.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Elbow Room a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Little, Brown 1977 first printing: copyright page states 'First Edition' with the 'Published' line dated 1977 and no number line (Little, Brown of this era used a stated-edition method, not a number line). First-issue green cloth in priced jacket.
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 1977 is the true first. Winner of the 1978 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club editions lack the stated 'First Edition' line and carry a blind-stamp to the rear board with an unpriced jacket.
I have a first edition of Elbow Room — 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.