The points of issue
First hardcover stating 'A Four Walls Eight Windows First Edition' on the copyright page with a complete number line descending to 1; priced jacket on the front flap; textured black paper-covered boards with gilt spine lettering and publisher's emblem.
Is this the true first?
The US Four Walls Eight Windows hardcover is the true first, preceding the UK Women's Press edition and all paperbacks. As a small-press title the hardcover first is scarce.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No standard book-club issue under the small-press imprint; later trade-paperback and reprint editions are not the first. Confirm the stated 'A Four Walls Eight Windows First Edition' line and the number line ending in 1.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Parable of the Sower a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First hardcover stating 'A Four Walls Eight Windows First Edition' on the copyright page with a complete number line descending to 1; priced jacket on the front flap; textured black paper-covered boards with gilt spine lettering and publisher's emblem.
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. The US Four Walls Eight Windows hardcover is the true first, preceding the UK Women's Press edition and all paperbacks. As a small-press title the hardcover first is scarce.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No standard book-club issue under the small-press imprint; later trade-paperback and reprint editions are not the first. Confirm the stated 'A Four Walls Eight Windows First Edition' line and the number line ending in 1.
I have a first edition of Parable of the Sower — 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.