The points of issue
First edition published 2017 by Greenwillow Books (HarperCollins), New York. First printing has 'First Edition' stated on the copyright page together with a number line ending in 1; copyright 2017. Illustrated by Isabel Roxas; publisher's pictorial boards. ISBN 9780062414151.
Is this the true first?
US true first edition. Awarded the Newbery Medal in 2018.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Absence of the 'First Edition' statement or a number line not ending in 1 indicates a later printing. Jackets and covers carrying the Newbery seal postdate the 2018 award.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Hello, Universe a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition published 2017 by Greenwillow Books (HarperCollins), New York. First printing has 'First Edition' stated on the copyright page together with a number line ending in 1; copyright 2017. Illustrated by Isabel Roxas; publisher's pictorial boards. ISBN 9780062414151.
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. Awarded the Newbery Medal in 2018.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Absence of the 'First Edition' statement or a number line not ending in 1 indicates a later printing. Jackets and covers carrying the Newbery seal postdate the 2018 award.
I have a first edition of Hello, Universe — 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.