The points of issue
US Bobbs-Merrill first, 1974: first printing carries the Bobbs-Merrill imprint with no later-printing statement; black binding with gilt-lettered spine and a pictorial dust jacket. Won the 1975 Edgar for Best First Novel. Jacket priced for 1974.
Is this the true first?
US Bobbs-Merrill 1974 is the true first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club editions are smaller, lack the jacket price; later printings are stated on the verso.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Fletch a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: US Bobbs-Merrill first, 1974: first printing carries the Bobbs-Merrill imprint with no later-printing statement; black binding with gilt-lettered spine and a pictorial dust jacket. Won the 1975 Edgar for Best First Novel. Jacket priced for 1974.
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 Bobbs-Merrill 1974 is the true first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club editions are smaller, lack the jacket price; later printings are stated on the verso.
I have a first edition of Fletch — 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.