The points of issue
First edition 1992, Orchard Books (New York). The first printing has a full number line including 1 on the copyright page; copyright 1992. Quarter-cloth binding; first-state jacket without the Newbery Medal seal.
Is this the true first?
US true first. Newbery Medal 1993.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
A number line that does not include 1 indicates a later printing; book-club editions typically lack a jacket price; post-award jackets add the Newbery seal.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Missing May a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition 1992, Orchard Books (New York). The first printing has a full number line including 1 on the copyright page; copyright 1992. Quarter-cloth binding; first-state jacket without the Newbery Medal seal.
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. Newbery Medal 1993.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
A number line that does not include 1 indicates a later printing; book-club editions typically lack a jacket price; post-award jackets add the Newbery seal.
I have a first edition of Missing May — 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.