The points of issue
First trade edition is the Plume trade-paperback original, 1988 (New American Library). The first printing is identified by a complete number line ending in 1. New York Drama Critics' Circle best play, 1987-88.
Is this the true first?
The Plume trade paperback is the recognized trade first edition. A New American Library hardcover also appeared in 1988, but it circulated essentially as a book-club issue rather than a trade hardback first; the Plume wrappers issue is the standard collected first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The 1988 New American Library hardcover is a book-club style issue, not a trade hardback first that precedes the paperback. Identify the Plume first printing by the complete number line ending in 1.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Joe Turner's Come and Gone a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First trade edition is the Plume trade-paperback original, 1988 (New American Library). The first printing is identified by a complete number line ending in 1. New York Drama Critics' Circle best play, 1987-88.
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 Plume trade paperback is the recognized trade first edition. A New American Library hardcover also appeared in 1988, but it circulated essentially as a book-club issue rather than a trade hardback first; the Plume wrappers issue is the standard collected first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The 1988 New American Library hardcover is a book-club style issue, not a trade hardback first that precedes the paperback. Identify the Plume first printing by the complete number line ending in 1.
I have a first edition of Joe Turner's Come and Gone — 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.