The points of issue
First UK edition, Hodder & Stoughton 1982, titled Schindler's Ark (not Schindler's List), published in October 1982. 'First published 1982' on the verso; original boards with dust jacket. 1982 Booker winner.
Is this the true first?
The UK Hodder edition under the title Schindler's Ark is the true first of the work; the US Simon & Schuster 1982 edition was retitled Schindler's List. The UK 'Ark' title precedes and is the true first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The US Schindler's List title is a separate US issue, not the true first. UK book-club reprints lack the first-issue verso line. The film tie-in Schindler's List reprints are much later.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Schindler's Ark a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First UK edition, Hodder & Stoughton 1982, titled Schindler's Ark (not Schindler's List), published in October 1982. 'First published 1982' on the verso; original boards with dust jacket. 1982 Booker winner.
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 UK Hodder edition under the title Schindler's Ark is the true first of the work; the US Simon & Schuster 1982 edition was retitled Schindler's List. The UK 'Ark' title precedes and is the true first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The US Schindler's List title is a separate US issue, not the true first. UK book-club reprints lack the first-issue verso line. The film tie-in Schindler's List reprints are much later.
I have a first edition of Schindler's Ark — 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.