The points of issue
Paperback original, Berkley Medallion X1750; copyright page states first Berkley printing, October 1969; cover art by Paul Lehr. Vinge's first novel, expanded from the novella 'Grimm's Story' in Orbit 4 (1968). Later revised as 'Tatja Grimm's World' (Baen, 1987).
Is this the true first?
US Berkley Medallion paperback original (October 1969) is the true first; the 1987 Baen edition is a revised later version.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
None.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Grimm's World a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Paperback original, Berkley Medallion X1750; copyright page states first Berkley printing, October 1969; cover art by Paul Lehr. Vinge's first novel, expanded from the novella 'Grimm's Story' in Orbit 4 (1968). Later revised as 'Tatja Grimm's World' (Baen, 1987).
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 Berkley Medallion paperback original (October 1969) is the true first; the 1987 Baen edition is a revised later version.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
None.
I have a first edition of Grimm's World — 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.