The points of issue
Seven Stories hardcover; copyright page states 'First edition, October 2005' with a complete number line; priced jacket. Butler's final novel.
Is this the true first?
US Seven Stories hardcover (2005) is the true first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No major book-club issue.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Fledgling a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Seven Stories hardcover; copyright page states 'First edition, October 2005' with a complete number line; priced jacket. Butler's final novel.
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 Seven Stories hardcover (2005) is the true first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No major book-club issue.
I have a first edition of Fledgling — 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.