The points of issue
First printing has 'First Impression' stated on the copyright page (the Philomel convention) and a first-state jacket WITHOUT the Caldecott Medal seal; John Schoenherr watercolors, with the price present on the jacket flap.
Is this the true first?
US Philomel Books 1987 is the true first; Schoenherr won the 1988 Caldecott Medal, so a gold-seal jacket indicates a later jacket state.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings drop the 'First Impression' statement; book-club and reissue jackets add the gold Caldecott seal.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Owl Moon a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing has 'First Impression' stated on the copyright page (the Philomel convention) and a first-state jacket WITHOUT the Caldecott Medal seal; John Schoenherr watercolors, with the price present on the jacket flap.
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 Philomel Books 1987 is the true first; Schoenherr won the 1988 Caldecott Medal, so a gold-seal jacket indicates a later jacket state.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings drop the 'First Impression' statement; book-club and reissue jackets add the gold Caldecott seal.
I have a first edition of Owl Moon — 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.