The points of issue
First English edition, 1978, translated by Fatma Moussa-Mahmoud, edited and revised by Maged el Kommos and John Rodenbeck, with an introduction by John Fowles. Issued as Heinemann African Writers Series number 197 (wrappers carry the AWS series number on the spine); the American University in Cairo Press issued the parallel hardcover. The Arabic original appeared in 1967.
Is this the true first?
The 1978 Heinemann African Writers Series / AUC Press appearance is the first English edition. Later Doubleday/Anchor and other paperback issues are reprints.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Doubleday US and later paperbacks are reprints. The AWS series number on the spine is a series identifier, not a reprint indicator.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Miramar a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First English edition, 1978, translated by Fatma Moussa-Mahmoud, edited and revised by Maged el Kommos and John Rodenbeck, with an introduction by John Fowles. Issued as Heinemann African Writers Series number 197 (wrappers carry the AWS series number on the spine); the American University in Cairo Press issued the parallel hardcover. The Arabic original appeared in 1967.
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 1978 Heinemann African Writers Series / AUC Press appearance is the first English edition. Later Doubleday/Anchor and other paperback issues are reprints.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Doubleday US and later paperbacks are reprints. The AWS series number on the spine is a series identifier, not a reprint indicator.
I have a first edition of Miramar — 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.