The points of issue
"First Edition" stated on the copyright page; this is Styron's only published play. Issued in hardcover with dust jacket, illustrated with production photographs.
Is this the true first?
US first; first-thus as Styron's sole work for the stage. The play premiered at the Yale Repertory Theatre.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings omit the "First Edition" statement.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of In the Clap Shack a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: "First Edition" stated on the copyright page; this is Styron's only published play. Issued in hardcover with dust jacket, illustrated with production photographs.
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 first; first-thus as Styron's sole work for the stage. The play premiered at the Yale Repertory Theatre.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings omit the "First Edition" statement.
I have a first edition of In the Clap Shack — 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.