The points of issue
McMurtry's first book (filmed as Hud). The true first states 'FIRST EDITION' on the copyright page with the Harper date code 'D-L' beneath it (D = April, L = 1961). Black paper boards backed in mustard-yellow cloth with the circular 'H B' torch device on the upper cover. First-state dust jacket carries the printed price on the front flap and the code 'No. 0184B' on the rear panel.
Is this the true first?
The US Harper & Brothers first is the true first and McMurtry's scarcest major book, being his first. The 'D-L' code together with the 'First Edition' statement confirms it.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club issue of note. The trap is later printings lacking the 'D-L' code, or copies in a later or price-clipped jacket. Verify both the 'First Edition' statement AND the D-L code.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Horseman, Pass By a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: McMurtry's first book (filmed as Hud). The true first states 'FIRST EDITION' on the copyright page with the Harper date code 'D-L' beneath it (D = April, L = 1961). Black paper boards backed in mustard-yellow cloth with the circular 'H B' torch device on the upper cover. First-state dust jacket carries the printed price on the front flap and the code 'No. 0184B' on the rear panel.
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 Harper & Brothers first is the true first and McMurtry's scarcest major book, being his first. The 'D-L' code together with the 'First Edition' statement confirms it.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club issue of note. The trap is later printings lacking the 'D-L' code, or copies in a later or price-clipped jacket. Verify both the 'First Edition' statement AND the D-L code.
I have a first edition of Horseman, Pass By — 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.