The points of issue
London: Victor Gollancz, 1975. Rushdie's scarce first novel, a work of fantasy and science fiction. Publisher's lilac boards, gilt spine titles; first-issue dust jacket printed in dark blue and purple, priced £3.50 net to the flap, unclipped. Copyright page reads 'First published 1975'. Genuinely uncommon as Rushdie's debut.
Is this the true first?
The UK Gollancz edition (1975) is the true first, preceding the US Overlook Press edition (1979). The debut is the scarcest Rushdie first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later impressions add a printing statement; the US edition is much later (1979) and a separate setting.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Grimus a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: London: Victor Gollancz, 1975. Rushdie's scarce first novel, a work of fantasy and science fiction. Publisher's lilac boards, gilt spine titles; first-issue dust jacket printed in dark blue and purple, priced £3.50 net to the flap, unclipped. Copyright page reads 'First published 1975'. Genuinely uncommon as Rushdie's debut.
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. The UK Gollancz edition (1975) is the true first, preceding the US Overlook Press edition (1979). The debut is the scarcest Rushdie first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later impressions add a printing statement; the US edition is much later (1979) and a separate setting.
I have a first edition of Grimus — 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.