The points of issue
Story collection of nine pieces. US Pocket Books paperback original (Pocket 81277), 1977; first printing states POCKET BOOK edition published July, 1977 on the copyright page.
Is this the true first?
US Pocket Books paperback original is the true first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later reprints change the printing statement on the copyright page.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Songs of Stars and Shadows a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Story collection of nine pieces. US Pocket Books paperback original (Pocket 81277), 1977; first printing states POCKET BOOK edition published July, 1977 on the copyright page.
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 Pocket Books paperback original is the true first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later reprints change the printing statement on the copyright page.
I have a first edition of Songs of Stars and Shadows — 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.