The points of issue
First published in 1963 by Heinemann under the pseudonym 'Joseph Kell' - the true first carries the Kell byline, not Burgess. This is the key bibliographic point. First volume of the Enderby sequence.
Is this the true first?
The UK Heinemann edition (1963), bylined 'Joseph Kell', is the true first. Later editions under Burgess's own name, and the US Norton 'Enderby' omnibus, are subsequent.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Editions crediting 'Anthony Burgess' on the title page are later, not the true first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Inside Mr Enderby a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First published in 1963 by Heinemann under the pseudonym 'Joseph Kell' - the true first carries the Kell byline, not Burgess. This is the key bibliographic point. First volume of the Enderby sequence.
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 UK Heinemann edition (1963), bylined 'Joseph Kell', is the true first. Later editions under Burgess's own name, and the US Norton 'Enderby' omnibus, are subsequent.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Editions crediting 'Anthony Burgess' on the title page are later, not the true first.
I have a first edition of Inside Mr Enderby — 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.