The points of issue
First English-language edition: Europa Editions trade paperback original, published 25 September 2012, translated by Ann Goldstein, ISBN 9781609450786. A paperback original with French flaps and no hardcover issued by the publisher; first printing identified by a complete number line including 1 on the copyright page.
Is this the true first?
Europa Editions is the worldwide English-language publisher; the 2012 Europa paperback is the first English appearance. The Italian 'L'amica geniale' (Edizioni e/o, 2011) is the true first in any language. First of the Neapolitan Novels.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No hardcover first and no book-club edition; later printings are told by a number line that no longer includes 1. The 2011 Edizioni e/o Italian edition is the absolute true first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of My Brilliant Friend a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First English-language edition: Europa Editions trade paperback original, published 25 September 2012, translated by Ann Goldstein, ISBN 9781609450786. A paperback original with French flaps and no hardcover issued by the publisher; first printing identified by a complete number line including 1 on the copyright page.
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. Europa Editions is the worldwide English-language publisher; the 2012 Europa paperback is the first English appearance. The Italian 'L'amica geniale' (Edizioni e/o, 2011) is the true first in any language. First of the Neapolitan Novels.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No hardcover first and no book-club edition; later printings are told by a number line that no longer includes 1. The 2011 Edizioni e/o Italian edition is the absolute true first.
I have a first edition of My Brilliant Friend — 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.