The points of issue
First printing; volume one of Burgess's autobiography, subtitled 'Being the First Part of the Confessions of Anthony Burgess.' Unlike most of Burgess's books, the American Weidenfeld & Nicolson (New York) edition appeared first, in 1986, and precedes the UK William Heinemann edition of 1987. Collectors seeking the true first should look for the New York Weidenfeld & Nicolson 1986 issue.
Is this the true first?
US Weidenfeld & Nicolson (New York) 1986 is the true first; the UK William Heinemann edition followed in 1987. This reverses the usual UK-first pattern for Burgess. The original record's claim that Heinemann 1987 was the true first is incorrect.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club issue.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Little Wilson and Big God a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing; volume one of Burgess's autobiography, subtitled 'Being the First Part of the Confessions of Anthony Burgess.' Unlike most of Burgess's books, the American Weidenfeld & Nicolson (New York) edition appeared first, in 1986, and precedes the UK William Heinemann edition of 1987. Collectors seeking the true first should look for the New York Weidenfeld & Nicolson 1986 issue.
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 Weidenfeld & Nicolson (New York) 1986 is the true first; the UK William Heinemann edition followed in 1987. This reverses the usual UK-first pattern for Burgess. The original record's claim that Heinemann 1987 was the true first is incorrect.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club issue.
I have a first edition of Little Wilson and Big God — 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.