The points of issue
First English edition is the Europa Editions trade paperback (25 September 2012), translated by Ann Goldstein, with the edition statement on the copyright page. Europa published it as an original paperback, not a hardcover.
Is this the true first?
The Italian first (L'amica geniale, Edizioni e/o, 2011) is the true first. For English collectors the Europa 2012 paperback is the first English edition and the sought issue. Ferrante's pseudonymity means signed copies effectively do not exist, raising the scarcity of any association material.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club edition; note Europa issued it as a paperback original, so there is no US hardcover trade first. Distinguish the Italian true first from the Europa first-English.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of My Brilliant Friend a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First English edition is the Europa Editions trade paperback (25 September 2012), translated by Ann Goldstein, with the edition statement on the copyright page. Europa published it as an original paperback, not a hardcover.
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 Italian first (L'amica geniale, Edizioni e/o, 2011) is the true first. For English collectors the Europa 2012 paperback is the first English edition and the sought issue. Ferrante's pseudonymity means signed copies effectively do not exist, raising the scarcity of any association material.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club edition; note Europa issued it as a paperback original, so there is no US hardcover trade first. Distinguish the Italian true first from the Europa first-English.
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.