The points of issue
First edition 1948, Rand McNally (Chicago). The first printing is identified by the letter A on the copyright page (Rand McNally's first-printing code) together with the 1948 date and no later-printing statement. Color and black-and-white illustrations by Wesley Dennis; red cloth with gilt spine and front-cover decoration, illustrated endpapers. First-issue copies have no Newbery seal on the cover.
Is this the true first?
US true first. Awarded the Newbery Medal in 1949.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later Rand McNally printings change or drop the letter code; reprints add the Newbery seal. Marguerite Henry titles were widely reprinted.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of King of the Wind a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition 1948, Rand McNally (Chicago). The first printing is identified by the letter A on the copyright page (Rand McNally's first-printing code) together with the 1948 date and no later-printing statement. Color and black-and-white illustrations by Wesley Dennis; red cloth with gilt spine and front-cover decoration, illustrated endpapers. First-issue copies have no Newbery seal on the cover.
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 true first. Awarded the Newbery Medal in 1949.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later Rand McNally printings change or drop the letter code; reprints add the Newbery seal. Marguerite Henry titles were widely reprinted.
I have a first edition of King of the Wind — 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.