The points of issue
Third Duffy novel under the Dan Kavanagh pseudonym. Boards with gilt spine; copyright page states 'First published 1985' with no later impressions noted.
Is this the true first?
UK Jonathan Cape (1985) is the true first. A US Pantheon edition followed; the exact US year is not independently confirmed here, but UK-first precedence is secure.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club edition relevant; later impressions are stated on the copyright page.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Putting the Boot In a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Third Duffy novel under the Dan Kavanagh pseudonym. Boards with gilt spine; copyright page states 'First published 1985' with no later impressions noted.
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 Jonathan Cape (1985) is the true first. A US Pantheon edition followed; the exact US year is not independently confirmed here, but UK-first precedence is secure.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club edition relevant; later impressions are stated on the copyright page.
I have a first edition of Putting the Boot In — 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.