The points of issue
UK Voyager hardcover, published 15 October 2001, with number line ending in 1 and John Howe jacket art. The US Bantam Spectra hardcover followed on 29 January 2002.
Is this the true first?
UK Voyager hardcover is the true first; the US Bantam Spectra hardcover followed in January 2002.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings differ; a first printing carries a complete number line ending in 1.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Fool's Errand (The Tawny Man 1) a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: UK Voyager hardcover, published 15 October 2001, with number line ending in 1 and John Howe jacket art. The US Bantam Spectra hardcover followed on 29 January 2002.
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. UK Voyager hardcover is the true first; the US Bantam Spectra hardcover followed in January 2002.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings differ; a first printing carries a complete number line ending in 1.
I have a first edition of Fool's Errand (The Tawny Man 1) — 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.