The points of issue
First printing states 'First Printing' on the copyright page with no later-printing statement. Issued in burgundy cloth lettered in gilt with a stained top edge and dust jacket.
Is this the true first?
US first (Random House, New York, 1960); UK Cresset Press 1960.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book club edition is identified by a blind-stamp to the rear board and the absence of the printed price on the dust jacket.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Ourselves to Know a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing states 'First Printing' on the copyright page with no later-printing statement. Issued in burgundy cloth lettered in gilt with a stained top edge and dust jacket.
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. US first (Random House, New York, 1960); UK Cresset Press 1960.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book club edition is identified by a blind-stamp to the rear board and the absence of the printed price on the dust jacket.
I have a first edition of Ourselves to Know — 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.