The points of issue
First printing identified by the Little, Brown first-edition statement on the copyright page, with no later-printing notice present.
Is this the true first?
US first, Little, Brown, Boston, 1951. First British edition published by Robert Hale, London, in 1952.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
A Book-of-the-Month Club issue exists, identifiable by a blind-stamped impression on the lower rear board near the spine; it is not the first edition.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Melville Goodwin, USA a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing identified by the Little, Brown first-edition statement on the copyright page, with no later-printing notice 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. US first, Little, Brown, Boston, 1951. First British edition published by Robert Hale, London, in 1952.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
A Book-of-the-Month Club issue exists, identifiable by a blind-stamped impression on the lower rear board near the spine; it is not the first edition.
I have a first edition of Melville Goodwin, USA — 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.