The points of issue
Boards with gilt spine lettering; copyright page reads 'First published 1981'; original dust jacket. Swift's second novel.
Is this the true first?
UK Allen Lane (1981) precedes the US Washington Square Press edition; the Allen Lane hardcover is the true first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club edition of note.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Shuttlecock a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Boards with gilt spine lettering; copyright page reads 'First published 1981'; original dust jacket. Swift's second novel.
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 Allen Lane (1981) precedes the US Washington Square Press edition; the Allen Lane hardcover is the true first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club edition of note.
I have a first edition of Shuttlecock — 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.