The points of issue
First edition in publisher's cloth with dust jacket designed by David Gentleman. Volume 4 of The Avignon Quintet. ISBN 0571131115.
Is this the true first?
UK Faber & Faber is the true first. A US edition followed from The Viking Press (dated 1983/1984).
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club issue noted.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Sebastian, or Ruling Passions a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition in publisher's cloth with dust jacket designed by David Gentleman. Volume 4 of The Avignon Quintet. ISBN 0571131115.
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 Faber & Faber is the true first. A US edition followed from The Viking Press (dated 1983/1984).
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club issue noted.
I have a first edition of Sebastian, or Ruling Passions — 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.