The points of issue
Story collection. US Morrow hardcover (September 26, 2006) and UK Headline Review hardcover published essentially simultaneously in late September 2006; First Edition stated with full number line.
Is this the true first?
US Morrow / UK Headline co-first 2006; publication was effectively simultaneous.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings differ.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Fragile Things: Short Fictions and Wonders a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Story collection. US Morrow hardcover (September 26, 2006) and UK Headline Review hardcover published essentially simultaneously in late September 2006; First Edition stated with full number line.
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 Morrow / UK Headline co-first 2006; publication was effectively simultaneous.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings differ.
I have a first edition of Fragile Things: Short Fictions and Wonders — 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.