The points of issue
Knopf first US trade edition was published in January 1996, not 1995; the copyright page states 'First Trade Edition' and notes that a signed first edition was privately printed by The Franklin Library.
Is this the true first?
The UK Headline edition (October 1995) precedes the Knopf trade edition and is the true first trade edition; a Franklin Library signed edition also appeared in 1995. The Knopf is the first US trade edition only.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book club editions lack the First Trade Edition statement and the jacket price.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Intensity a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Knopf first US trade edition was published in January 1996, not 1995; the copyright page states 'First Trade Edition' and notes that a signed first edition was privately printed by The Franklin Library.
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 Headline edition (October 1995) precedes the Knopf trade edition and is the true first trade edition; a Franklin Library signed edition also appeared in 1995. The Knopf is the first US trade edition only.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book club editions lack the First Trade Edition statement and the jacket price.
I have a first edition of Intensity — 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.