The points of issue
Tor hardcover in dust jacket; quarter black cloth over grey paper boards, gilt spine lettering, map endpapers. Copyright page states 'First Edition'. Priced jacket. Tales of Alvin Maker, Book II.
Is this the true first?
The US Tor hardcover (1988) is the true first edition. No earlier UK or Canadian printing precedes it.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
A Science Fiction Book Club edition exists; distinguished by a blind-stamped rear-board code and the lack of a printed jacket price.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Red Prophet a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Tor hardcover in dust jacket; quarter black cloth over grey paper boards, gilt spine lettering, map endpapers. Copyright page states 'First Edition'. Priced jacket. Tales of Alvin Maker, Book II.
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 Tor hardcover (1988) is the true first edition. No earlier UK or Canadian printing precedes it.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
A Science Fiction Book Club edition exists; distinguished by a blind-stamped rear-board code and the lack of a printed jacket price.
I have a first edition of Red Prophet — 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.