The points of issue
First UK edition, Hutchinson, London, 1974. 'First published 1974' stated on the copyright page (verso of the title leaf), with no later impression line. Original boards in dust jacket. Co-winner of the 1974 Booker Prize, shared with Nadine Gordimer's The Conservationist.
Is this the true first?
The Hutchinson UK edition is the true first; there is no separately collected US first of note.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No major book-club edition; later Hutchinson impressions are identified by additional printing statements on the copyright page.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Holiday a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First UK edition, Hutchinson, London, 1974. 'First published 1974' stated on the copyright page (verso of the title leaf), with no later impression line. Original boards in dust jacket. Co-winner of the 1974 Booker Prize, shared with Nadine Gordimer's The Conservationist.
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 Hutchinson UK edition is the true first; there is no separately collected US first of note.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No major book-club edition; later Hutchinson impressions are identified by additional printing statements on the copyright page.
I have a first edition of Holiday — 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.