The points of issue
First edition 1944, Viking (New York). First printing identified by 'First Published September 1944' on the copyright page with no further printings noted. Author-illustrated by Robert Lawson; pictorial cloth. First-state jacket lacks the Newbery Medal seal.
Is this the true first?
US true first. Won the Newbery Medal in 1945.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Viking later printings list additional printings. Second-state jackets add the Newbery Medal seal to the front. The sequel 'The Tough Winter' is a separate book.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Rabbit Hill a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition 1944, Viking (New York). First printing identified by 'First Published September 1944' on the copyright page with no further printings noted. Author-illustrated by Robert Lawson; pictorial cloth. First-state jacket lacks the Newbery Medal seal.
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 true first. Won the Newbery Medal in 1945.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Viking later printings list additional printings. Second-state jackets add the Newbery Medal seal to the front. The sequel 'The Tough Winter' is a separate book.
I have a first edition of Rabbit Hill — 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.