The points of issue
'First Edition' stated on the copyright page. Trade first issued in black cloth over blue boards stamped in silver and blue; the dust jacket carries the publisher's printed price on the front flap (photograph by Richard Avedon, jacket design by John Scotford).
Is this the true first?
US Doubleday is the true first; a UK Jonathan Cape edition appeared in 1955.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book club editions lack the 'First Edition' statement and the jacket price; the trade first states 'First Edition'.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Marjorie Morningstar a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: 'First Edition' stated on the copyright page. Trade first issued in black cloth over blue boards stamped in silver and blue; the dust jacket carries the publisher's printed price on the front flap (photograph by Richard Avedon, jacket design by John Scotford).
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 Doubleday is the true first; a UK Jonathan Cape edition appeared in 1955.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book club editions lack the 'First Edition' statement and the jacket price; the trade first states 'First Edition'.
I have a first edition of Marjorie Morningstar — 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.