The points of issue
Seven Stories Press hardcover (1998); first printing with the complete number line ending in 1; black paper-covered boards lettered in silver on the spine. First-state dust jacket bears an incorrect ISBN printed on the rear panel (ending 762), with a corrective sticker giving the proper ISBN (ending 819) applied over it; the sticker is frequently missing or rubbed on surviving copies. Sequel to Parable of the Sower.
Is this the true first?
The US Seven Stories Press 1998 hardcover is the true first. The complete number line marks the first printing, and the rear-panel ISBN error with corrective sticker identifies the first-state jacket.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book club edition: no price on the jacket flap, a blind-stamp on the rear board, and it lacks the full number line.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Parable of the Talents a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Seven Stories Press hardcover (1998); first printing with the complete number line ending in 1; black paper-covered boards lettered in silver on the spine. First-state dust jacket bears an incorrect ISBN printed on the rear panel (ending 762), with a corrective sticker giving the proper ISBN (ending 819) applied over it; the sticker is frequently missing or rubbed on surviving copies. Sequel to Parable of the Sower.
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 Seven Stories Press 1998 hardcover is the true first. The complete number line marks the first printing, and the rear-panel ISBN error with corrective sticker identifies the first-state jacket.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book club edition: no price on the jacket flap, a blind-stamp on the rear board, and it lacks the full number line.
I have a first edition of Parable of the Talents — 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.