The points of issue
Copyright page states 'First Scribner edition 2006' with a full number line ending in 1. First-state dust jacket carries the printed cover price. Scribner colophon present.
Is this the true first?
The US Scribner 2006 edition is the true first. The UK Hodder and Stoughton 2006 edition is a separate edition.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The book-club edition lacks the full number line ending in 1, has a rear-board blind stamp, and carries a no-price jacket. Verify the 1 in the number line and the priced jacket.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Lisey's Story a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Copyright page states 'First Scribner edition 2006' with a full number line ending in 1. First-state dust jacket carries the printed cover price. Scribner colophon present.
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 US Scribner 2006 edition is the true first. The UK Hodder and Stoughton 2006 edition is a separate edition.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The book-club edition lacks the full number line ending in 1, has a rear-board blind stamp, and carries a no-price jacket. Verify the 1 in the number line and the priced jacket.
I have a first edition of Lisey's Story — 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.