The points of issue
First printing under the Ivan Obolensky imprint, 1963, with no later-printing statement on the copyright page. Publisher's cloth (teal/blue, stamped in white to the spine) in the original aqua dust jacket designed by Anthony Post, with a photograph of Didion on the rear panel. Didion's first novel, set in the Sacramento Valley.
Is this the true first?
The US Ivan Obolensky 1963 edition is the true first and Didion's debut novel. Later reissues under different imprints are 'first thus,' not the true first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Identified by the Ivan Obolensky imprint and the original priced first-issue jacket; commonly encountered copies are later reissues with different imprints.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Run River a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing under the Ivan Obolensky imprint, 1963, with no later-printing statement on the copyright page. Publisher's cloth (teal/blue, stamped in white to the spine) in the original aqua dust jacket designed by Anthony Post, with a photograph of Didion on the rear panel. Didion's first novel, set in the Sacramento Valley.
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 Ivan Obolensky 1963 edition is the true first and Didion's debut novel. Later reissues under different imprints are 'first thus,' not the true first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Identified by the Ivan Obolensky imprint and the original priced first-issue jacket; commonly encountered copies are later reissues with different imprints.
I have a first edition of Run River — 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.