The points of issue
First UK edition, first printing, published June 1906 by George Newnes. Wodehouse's first adult novel and the first to feature the character Ukridge, with a frontispiece and three illustrations by H. M. Brock. Substantially rewritten for the revised 1921 edition. Scarce in first printing.
Is this the true first?
UK Newnes is the true first (1906); the 1921 revised text (Jenkins in the UK, Doran in the US) is a distinct later state. The 1906 first printing is the key issue.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The 1921 revised edition has substantially altered text and should not be confused with the first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Love Among the Chickens a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First UK edition, first printing, published June 1906 by George Newnes. Wodehouse's first adult novel and the first to feature the character Ukridge, with a frontispiece and three illustrations by H. M. Brock. Substantially rewritten for the revised 1921 edition. Scarce in first printing.
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 Newnes is the true first (1906); the 1921 revised text (Jenkins in the UK, Doran in the US) is a distinct later state. The 1906 first printing is the key issue.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The 1921 revised edition has substantially altered text and should not be confused with the first.
I have a first edition of Love Among the Chickens — 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.