The points of issue
First printing of the Methuen edition, London, published 15 October 1925 under the title 'Sam the Sudden.' The US edition (George H. Doran, 6 November 1925) carries the different title 'Sam in the Suburbs' — the title is the key distinguishing point between the two issues.
Is this the true first?
UK Methuen (15 October 1925) is the true first edition; the US Doran edition (6 November 1925) was retitled 'Sam in the Suburbs.'
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The differing US and UK titles distinguish the two first issues; no separate book-club point of concern for the true first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Sam the Sudden a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing of the Methuen edition, London, published 15 October 1925 under the title 'Sam the Sudden.' The US edition (George H. Doran, 6 November 1925) carries the different title 'Sam in the Suburbs' — the title is the key distinguishing point between the two issues.
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. UK Methuen (15 October 1925) is the true first edition; the US Doran edition (6 November 1925) was retitled 'Sam in the Suburbs.'
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The differing US and UK titles distinguish the two first issues; no separate book-club point of concern for the true first.
I have a first edition of Sam the Sudden — 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.