The points of issue
First edition, first impression, published by Chapman & Hall, London, in 1936. Waugh's first collection of short fiction, with a dust-wrapper design by the author.
Is this the true first?
UK Chapman & Hall 1936 is the true first. The first American edition was published by Little, Brown, Boston, in October 1936 in a limited issue of 750 copies (700 for sale).
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club issue; the US edition was a limited printing of 750 copies.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Mr. Loveday's Little Outing and Other Sad Stories a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition, first impression, published by Chapman & Hall, London, in 1936. Waugh's first collection of short fiction, with a dust-wrapper design by the author.
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. UK Chapman & Hall 1936 is the true first. The first American edition was published by Little, Brown, Boston, in October 1936 in a limited issue of 750 copies (700 for sale).
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club issue; the US edition was a limited printing of 750 copies.
I have a first edition of Mr. Loveday's Little Outing and Other Sad Stories — 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.