The points of issue
US Putnam first states 'First Impression' on the copyright page. Original jacket priced the printed price. Issued in cloth.
Is this the true first?
US Putnam is the true first; UK Weidenfeld & Nicolson (1962) is later. 'First Impression' stated is the point.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club edition lacks 'First Impression', has a blind-stamp, and uses bulkier paper.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Pale Fire a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: US Putnam first states 'First Impression' on the copyright page. Original jacket priced the printed price. Issued in cloth.
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 Putnam is the true first; UK Weidenfeld & Nicolson (1962) is later. 'First Impression' stated is the point.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club edition lacks 'First Impression', has a blind-stamp, and uses bulkier paper.
I have a first edition of Pale Fire — 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.