The points of issue
Victor Gollancz 1984 in the characteristic yellow Gollancz dust jacket. Copyright page states 'First published in Great Britain 1984' with no later printings. First state has the yellow Gollancz jacket and 1984-only dating.
Is this the true first?
UK Gollancz 1984 is the true first. US Arbor House (1984) is first American. The Gollancz first (World Fantasy Award winner) is the key collectible.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings note additional impressions; the US Arbor House and book-club copies are distinct. Yellow Gollancz jacket with 1984 first-publication line = UK first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Mythago Wood a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Victor Gollancz 1984 in the characteristic yellow Gollancz dust jacket. Copyright page states 'First published in Great Britain 1984' with no later printings. First state has the yellow Gollancz jacket and 1984-only dating.
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 Gollancz 1984 is the true first. US Arbor House (1984) is first American. The Gollancz first (World Fantasy Award winner) is the key collectible.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings note additional impressions; the US Arbor House and book-club copies are distinct. Yellow Gollancz jacket with 1984 first-publication line = UK first.
I have a first edition of Mythago Wood — 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.