The points of issue
True first is the paperback original, Royal Giant #16 (1953), bound back-to-back (a Royal double) with 'Wild Wives' in some states. Willeford's first novel. Paperback wraps only; Royal Books imprint and catalog number identify it.
Is this the true first?
Paperback is the true first. Later editions pairing 'High Priest of California' and 'Wild Wives' (Re/Search, 1987, etc.) are modern first-thus collections.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club edition. Distinguish the Royal Giant #16 first from the 1987 Re/Search reprint and later editions.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of High Priest of California a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: True first is the paperback original, Royal Giant #16 (1953), bound back-to-back (a Royal double) with 'Wild Wives' in some states. Willeford's first novel. Paperback wraps only; Royal Books imprint and catalog number identify it.
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. Paperback is the true first. Later editions pairing 'High Priest of California' and 'Wild Wives' (Re/Search, 1987, etc.) are modern first-thus collections.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club edition. Distinguish the Royal Giant #16 first from the 1987 Re/Search reprint and later editions.
I have a first edition of High Priest of California — 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.