The points of issue
First edition 1936, Viking (NY). The first printing copyright page reads 'First Published October 1936' with no later printing notices. Illustrations by Valenti Angelo. Note that a Junior Literary Guild issue appeared concurrently and is generally treated as a separate issue from the Viking trade first.
Is this the true first?
US true first (Viking trade issue). Awarded the Newbery Medal in 1937.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Viking later printings add printing statements on the copyright page. The Junior Literary Guild issue is a distinct concurrent issue, not the Viking trade first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Roller Skates a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition 1936, Viking (NY). The first printing copyright page reads 'First Published October 1936' with no later printing notices. Illustrations by Valenti Angelo. Note that a Junior Literary Guild issue appeared concurrently and is generally treated as a separate issue from the Viking trade first.
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 (Viking trade issue). Awarded the Newbery Medal in 1937.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Viking later printings add printing statements on the copyright page. The Junior Literary Guild issue is a distinct concurrent issue, not the Viking trade first.
I have a first edition of Roller Skates — 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.