The points of issue
Atheneum first printing. Through 1986 Atheneum stated First Edition on the copyright page (no number line); the original dust jacket is unclipped with the publisher's price intact. The earlier draft cited a number line ending in 1, which is incorrect for a 1986 Atheneum title, and asserted a National Book Critics Circle Award that is disputed in award records; both have been removed.
Is this the true first?
US first (Atheneum, New York).
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book club edition lacks the stated First Edition on the copyright page, typically carries a blind stamp on the rear board, and has a jacket with no printed price.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Kate Vaiden a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Atheneum first printing. Through 1986 Atheneum stated First Edition on the copyright page (no number line); the original dust jacket is unclipped with the publisher's price intact. The earlier draft cited a number line ending in 1, which is incorrect for a 1986 Atheneum title, and asserted a National Book Critics Circle Award that is disputed in award records; both have been removed.
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 (Atheneum, New York).
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book club edition lacks the stated First Edition on the copyright page, typically carries a blind stamp on the rear board, and has a jacket with no printed price.
I have a first edition of Kate Vaiden — 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.