The points of issue
First edition stated; Little, Brown first printings of this period carry 'First Edition' or 'First Printing' on the copyright page. Story collection; green cloth in dust jacket.
Is this the true first?
US edition is the true first; the UK edition followed from Heinemann in 1957.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings are normally indicated; a Signet paperback followed in 1957.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Gulf Coast Stories a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition stated; Little, Brown first printings of this period carry 'First Edition' or 'First Printing' on the copyright page. Story collection; green cloth in dust jacket.
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 edition is the true first; the UK edition followed from Heinemann in 1957.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings are normally indicated; a Signet paperback followed in 1957.
I have a first edition of Gulf Coast Stories — 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.