The points of issue
Stated 'First published 1981'; Jonathan Cape, black cloth with dust jacket; subtitle 'A Mystery Story' on the title page; 223 pages.
Is this the true first?
UK Cape (1981) is the true first; the US Viking Press edition appeared the same year (1981), but the UK edition precedes.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No notable book-club edition concern.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Other People: A Mystery Story a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Stated 'First published 1981'; Jonathan Cape, black cloth with dust jacket; subtitle 'A Mystery Story' on the title page; 223 pages.
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 Cape (1981) is the true first; the US Viking Press edition appeared the same year (1981), but the UK edition precedes.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No notable book-club edition concern.
I have a first edition of Other People: A Mystery Story — 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.