The points of issue
First edition states 'FIRST EDITION' on the copyright page; the title page and binding read 'Go Down, Moses and Other Stories' (the 'and Other Stories' was later dropped). Primary first-issue binding: black cloth, titling and rule stamped in gilt and red on spine and front panel, with a red top stain. First-issue dust jacket lists eight titles on the rear panel beginning with 'Storm.' Several scarcer variant bindings are recorded, distinguished by an unstained top edge.
Is this the true first?
True US first; precedes the UK Chatto & Windus edition of 1942. The 'and Other Stories' on the title page and spine is a recognized first-issue point.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book club edition. Later printings drop both the 'and Other Stories' wording and the 'FIRST EDITION' statement.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Go Down, Moses a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition states 'FIRST EDITION' on the copyright page; the title page and binding read 'Go Down, Moses and Other Stories' (the 'and Other Stories' was later dropped). Primary first-issue binding: black cloth, titling and rule stamped in gilt and red on spine and front panel, with a red top stain. First-issue dust jacket lists eight titles on the rear panel beginning with 'Storm.' Several scarcer variant bindings are recorded, distinguished by an unstained top edge.
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. True US first; precedes the UK Chatto & Windus edition of 1942. The 'and Other Stories' on the title page and spine is a recognized first-issue point.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book club edition. Later printings drop both the 'and Other Stories' wording and the 'FIRST EDITION' statement.
I have a first edition of Go Down, Moses — 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.