The points of issue
First UK hardcover, Chatto & Windus / The Hogarth Press, 1985, stating 'First published 1985'. Mantel's debut novel, issued in cloth lettered in gilt with dust jacket. Scarce in jacket, particularly pre-Wolf Hall fame.
Is this the true first?
The UK Chatto & Windus 1985 hardcover is the true first; the US first was delayed to Henry Holt in 2000, so the UK strongly precedes.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No notable book-club edition; post-2009 reprints following her later fame are common.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Every Day Is Mother's Day a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First UK hardcover, Chatto & Windus / The Hogarth Press, 1985, stating 'First published 1985'. Mantel's debut novel, issued in cloth lettered in gilt with dust jacket. Scarce in jacket, particularly pre-Wolf Hall fame.
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. The UK Chatto & Windus 1985 hardcover is the true first; the US first was delayed to Henry Holt in 2000, so the UK strongly precedes.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No notable book-club edition; post-2009 reprints following her later fame are common.
I have a first edition of Every Day Is Mother's Day — 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.