The points of issue
Del Rey hardcover (a Del Rey Book, Ballantine Books), published October 1989; copyright page of the first printing carries a stated First Edition. Russian Stories vol. 1.
Is this the true first?
US Del Rey hardcover (October 1989) is the true first; the UK Methuen edition followed in 1990.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
SFBC edition exists; book club copies lack a jacket price and carry no first edition statement.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Rusalka a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Del Rey hardcover (a Del Rey Book, Ballantine Books), published October 1989; copyright page of the first printing carries a stated First Edition. Russian Stories vol. 1.
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 Del Rey hardcover (October 1989) is the true first; the UK Methuen edition followed in 1990.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
SFBC edition exists; book club copies lack a jacket price and carry no first edition statement.
I have a first edition of Rusalka — 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.