The points of issue
First edition: Dial Press 1976; first-issue dust jacket WITHOUT the Newbery Medal (won 1977), priced the printed price, with Jerry Pinkney jacket art; copyright page 1976 with no later-printing statement.
Is this the true first?
US Dial Press is the true first. The pre-Newbery jacket (no medal) is the defining first-issue point.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club editions add the Newbery Medal, drop the price, are smaller, and carry a board blind-stamp.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition: Dial Press 1976; first-issue dust jacket WITHOUT the Newbery Medal (won 1977), priced the printed price, with Jerry Pinkney jacket art; copyright page 1976 with no later-printing statement.
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 Dial Press is the true first. The pre-Newbery jacket (no medal) is the defining first-issue point.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club editions add the Newbery Medal, drop the price, are smaller, and carry a board blind-stamp.
I have a first edition of Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry — 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.