The points of issue
DAW hardcover, May 1995, DAW Collectors No. 984 stated on copyright page; first printing per number line to 1; priced jacket. Foreigner vol. 2.
Is this the true first?
US DAW hardcover (May 1995) is the true first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
SFBC edition exists.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Invader a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: DAW hardcover, May 1995, DAW Collectors No. 984 stated on copyright page; first printing per number line to 1; priced jacket. Foreigner vol. 2.
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 DAW hardcover (May 1995) is the true first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
SFBC edition exists.
I have a first edition of Invader — 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.