The points of issue
Two volumes, published anonymously (Gaskell's first novel), Chapman and Hall, London, 1848. Issued in publisher's plum/purple cloth with gilt spine lettering and blind-stamped covers. No author name on the title pages. Published October 1848.
Is this the true first?
The London Chapman and Hall 1848 two-volume edition is the true first. Issued anonymously; Gaskell's authorship is not stated on the title page.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later one-volume printings and editions bearing Gaskell's name are not the 1848 anonymous two-volume first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Mary Barton: A Tale of Manchester Life a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Two volumes, published anonymously (Gaskell's first novel), Chapman and Hall, London, 1848. Issued in publisher's plum/purple cloth with gilt spine lettering and blind-stamped covers. No author name on the title pages. Published October 1848.
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 London Chapman and Hall 1848 two-volume edition is the true first. Issued anonymously; Gaskell's authorship is not stated on the title page.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later one-volume printings and editions bearing Gaskell's name are not the 1848 anonymous two-volume first.
I have a first edition of Mary Barton: A Tale of Manchester Life — 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.