The points of issue
Methuen, London, 1985; issued in wrappers, copyright page stating 'First published 1985 by Methuen.' Co-written with Howard Brenton and premiered at the National Theatre in 1985. The first printing carries no later-printing line.
Is this the true first?
UK Methuen 1985 is the true first; a revised edition followed. Confirm first state by the copyright page.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The revised edition differs from the 1985 first; later Methuen Modern Classics reissues are not firsts. No book-club issue.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Pravda (with Howard Brenton) a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Methuen, London, 1985; issued in wrappers, copyright page stating 'First published 1985 by Methuen.' Co-written with Howard Brenton and premiered at the National Theatre in 1985. The first printing carries no later-printing line.
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. UK Methuen 1985 is the true first; a revised edition followed. Confirm first state by the copyright page.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The revised edition differs from the 1985 first; later Methuen Modern Classics reissues are not firsts. No book-club issue.
I have a first edition of Pravda (with Howard Brenton) — 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.