The points of issue
First printings state 'First Edition' by itself on its own line at the very bottom of the copyright page. Binding is blue cloth with a gold-stamped design carrying the title and author on the front. Two title-page states exist with no established priority: in State 1 the 'Y' in DOUBLEDAY sits below the 'T' in GARDEN CITY, while in State 2 the 'Y' sits below the 'TY' in GARDEN CITY. Title page dated 1924.
Is this the true first?
US Doubleday, Page 1924 is the true first, identified by the stated 'First Edition' line and the blue cloth binding. The two title-page alignment states are co-equal and neither holds priority.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Grosset & Dunlap photoplay and reprint editions are clearly marked and are later, inexpensive copies.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of So Big a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printings state 'First Edition' by itself on its own line at the very bottom of the copyright page. Binding is blue cloth with a gold-stamped design carrying the title and author on the front. Two title-page states exist with no established priority: in State 1 the 'Y' in DOUBLEDAY sits below the 'T' in GARDEN CITY, while in State 2 the 'Y' sits below the 'TY' in GARDEN CITY. Title page dated 1924.
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 Doubleday, Page 1924 is the true first, identified by the stated 'First Edition' line and the blue cloth binding. The two title-page alignment states are co-equal and neither holds priority.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Grosset & Dunlap photoplay and reprint editions are clearly marked and are later, inexpensive copies.
I have a first edition of So Big — 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.