The points of issue
First edition, first printing has the Harper & Row first-issue code 'F-S' (Harper letter code = 1968) on the copyright page with no later-printing line. First-issue dust jacket priced on the front flap with the original art and NO mention of the Pulitzer (the novel won the 1969 Pulitzer, so a Pulitzer-free jacket = first issue).
Is this the true first?
US Harper & Row (1968) is the true first—the 1969 Pulitzer winner that launched the Native American Renaissance. The Harper 'F-S' code plus a Pulitzer-free first-issue jacket are decisive. Signed firsts are scarce and valuable.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club editions lack the Harper code and price, bear a blind-stamp, and any Pulitzer reference on the jacket indicates a later printing/state. The 'F-S' code copy with Pulitzer-free jacket is the first printing.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of House Made of Dawn a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition, first printing has the Harper & Row first-issue code 'F-S' (Harper letter code = 1968) on the copyright page with no later-printing line. First-issue dust jacket priced on the front flap with the original art and NO mention of the Pulitzer (the novel won the 1969 Pulitzer, so a Pulitzer-free jacket = first issue).
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 Harper & Row (1968) is the true first—the 1969 Pulitzer winner that launched the Native American Renaissance. The Harper 'F-S' code plus a Pulitzer-free first-issue jacket are decisive. Signed firsts are scarce and valuable.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club editions lack the Harper code and price, bear a blind-stamp, and any Pulitzer reference on the jacket indicates a later printing/state. The 'F-S' code copy with Pulitzer-free jacket is the first printing.
I have a first edition of House Made of Dawn — 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.