The points of issue
First edition 2007, Candlewick Press (Cambridge, MA). First printing states 'First edition 2007' on the copyright page with a complete number line ending in 1 (2 4 6 8 10 9 7 5 3 1). Illustrated by Robert Byrd; pictorial boards; first-state dust jacket has no Newbery seal.
Is this the true first?
US true first edition. Newbery Medal awarded 2008.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
A stated later printing, a missing 'First edition 2007' line, or a number line not ending in 1 indicates a reprint; post-award jackets add the Newbery seal.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Good Masters! Sweet Ladies! Voices from a Medieval Village a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition 2007, Candlewick Press (Cambridge, MA). First printing states 'First edition 2007' on the copyright page with a complete number line ending in 1 (2 4 6 8 10 9 7 5 3 1). Illustrated by Robert Byrd; pictorial boards; first-state dust jacket has no Newbery seal.
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 true first edition. Newbery Medal awarded 2008.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
A stated later printing, a missing 'First edition 2007' line, or a number line not ending in 1 indicates a reprint; post-award jackets add the Newbery seal.
I have a first edition of Good Masters! Sweet Ladies! Voices from a Medieval Village — 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.