The points of issue
First edition published 2018 by Candlewick Press (Somerville, MA). First printing has 'First edition' stated on the copyright page together with a full descending number line ending in 1; copyright 2018. Publisher's pictorial boards; first-issue jacket without the Newbery Medal seal. ISBN 9780763690496.
Is this the true first?
US true first edition. Awarded the Newbery Medal in 2019.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
A number line that no longer ends in 1, or absence of the 'First edition' statement, indicates a later printing. Jackets carrying the Newbery seal postdate the 2019 award.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Merci Suárez Changes Gears a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition published 2018 by Candlewick Press (Somerville, MA). First printing has 'First edition' stated on the copyright page together with a full descending number line ending in 1; copyright 2018. Publisher's pictorial boards; first-issue jacket without the Newbery Medal seal. ISBN 9780763690496.
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 true first edition. Awarded the Newbery Medal in 2019.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
A number line that no longer ends in 1, or absence of the 'First edition' statement, indicates a later printing. Jackets carrying the Newbery seal postdate the 2019 award.
I have a first edition of Merci Suárez Changes Gears — 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.