The points of issue
First edition, first impression, published by Duckworth, London, in 1930. Waugh's first travel book, an account of a Mediterranean cruise. Retitled A Bachelor Abroad for the American edition.
Is this the true first?
UK Duckworth 1930 is the true first. The US edition was published by Jonathan Cape and Harrison Smith in 1930 under the title A Bachelor Abroad.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
American edition was retitled A Bachelor Abroad; not a book-club issue.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Labels: A Mediterranean Journal a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition, first impression, published by Duckworth, London, in 1930. Waugh's first travel book, an account of a Mediterranean cruise. Retitled A Bachelor Abroad for the American edition.
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. UK Duckworth 1930 is the true first. The US edition was published by Jonathan Cape and Harrison Smith in 1930 under the title A Bachelor Abroad.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
American edition was retitled A Bachelor Abroad; not a book-club issue.
I have a first edition of Labels: A Mediterranean Journal — 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.