The points of issue
Knopf first printing with 'First Edition' stated on the copyright page and the borzoi colophon; original price present on the front jacket flap; 113 pp.; jacket designed by Fred Marcellino. A short novel and a critical breakthrough for Hannah.
Is this the true first?
The US Knopf 1980 edition is the true first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club issue: blind-stamp to the board, no price on the jacket flap, and lacks the stated 'First Edition.'
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Ray a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Knopf first printing with 'First Edition' stated on the copyright page and the borzoi colophon; original price present on the front jacket flap; 113 pp.; jacket designed by Fred Marcellino. A short novel and a critical breakthrough for Hannah.
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 Knopf 1980 edition is the true first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club issue: blind-stamp to the board, no price on the jacket flap, and lacks the stated 'First Edition.'
I have a first edition of Ray — 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.