The points of issue
"First Edition" stated on the copyright page (verso of title). Glossy black cloth lettered in gilt on the spine; 182pp. O'Hara's third novel.
Is this the true first?
The US Harcourt, Brace printing is the true first; a UK Faber edition follows.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Reprints omit the "First Edition" statement.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Hope of Heaven a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: "First Edition" stated on the copyright page (verso of title). Glossy black cloth lettered in gilt on the spine; 182pp. O'Hara's third novel.
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 US Harcourt, Brace printing is the true first; a UK Faber edition follows.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Reprints omit the "First Edition" statement.
I have a first edition of Hope of Heaven — 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.