The points of issue
Bantam hardcover, December 2003. Copyright page carries a full number line ending in 1. First printings include an excerpt from Life Expectancy and an advertisement for Frankenstein: Prodigal Son at the rear. First novel in the Odd Thomas series.
Is this the true first?
Bantam US true first; the UK HarperCollins edition followed in January 2004, and a Charnel House signed limited edition followed later in 2004.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
A book club edition was issued almost simultaneously; club copies carry book club identification numbers on the jacket and lack a jacket price.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Odd Thomas a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Bantam hardcover, December 2003. Copyright page carries a full number line ending in 1. First printings include an excerpt from Life Expectancy and an advertisement for Frankenstein: Prodigal Son at the rear. First novel in the Odd Thomas series.
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. Bantam US true first; the UK HarperCollins edition followed in January 2004, and a Charnel House signed limited edition followed later in 2004.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
A book club edition was issued almost simultaneously; club copies carry book club identification numbers on the jacket and lack a jacket price.
I have a first edition of Odd Thomas — 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.