The points of issue
First issue: copyright page reads 'Published September, 1911' as called for, with the Scribner seal. The principal first-issue point is the word 'wearily' in perfect, unbroken type on page 135 (the type later broke); red cloth lettered in gilt. Wharton bibliography reference Garrison A14. First-issue dust jacket very scarce.
Is this the true first?
True US first; the US Scribner edition precedes the UK Macmillan edition of 1911.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book club edition. Later printings show the broken type on page 135 and later notices.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Ethan Frome a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First issue: copyright page reads 'Published September, 1911' as called for, with the Scribner seal. The principal first-issue point is the word 'wearily' in perfect, unbroken type on page 135 (the type later broke); red cloth lettered in gilt. Wharton bibliography reference Garrison A14. First-issue dust jacket very scarce.
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. True US first; the US Scribner edition precedes the UK Macmillan edition of 1911.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book club edition. Later printings show the broken type on page 135 and later notices.
I have a first edition of Ethan Frome — 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.