The points of issue
First printing has the copyright-page first-edition statement and a complete number line that includes the 1 (sequence 1 3 5 7 9 10 8 6 4 2). First-state dust jacket priced as issued on the front flap. Won the 1989 World Fantasy Award for Best Novel.
Is this the true first?
US Dutton 1988 is the true first; UK Viking 1988 is a separate edition. Verify the US copyright-page first-printing state.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The book-club edition has a rear-board blind-stamp, no jacket price, and lacks the full number line. Confirm the 1 in the line and the priced jacket.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Koko a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing has the copyright-page first-edition statement and a complete number line that includes the 1 (sequence 1 3 5 7 9 10 8 6 4 2). First-state dust jacket priced as issued on the front flap. Won the 1989 World Fantasy Award for Best Novel.
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 Dutton 1988 is the true first; UK Viking 1988 is a separate edition. Verify the US copyright-page first-printing state.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The book-club edition has a rear-board blind-stamp, no jacket price, and lacks the full number line. Confirm the 1 in the line and the priced jacket.
I have a first edition of Koko — 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.