The points of issue
The UK Herbert Jenkins edition and the US Doubleday edition were both published on the same day, 20 May 1948. Neither precedes the other; they are simultaneous first editions. Collect either as a first, identified by the publisher's first-printing imprint with no later-impression statement.
Is this the true first?
Simultaneous true first in both the UK (Herbert Jenkins) and the US (Doubleday), both dated 20 May 1948. The original record's claim that the US Doubleday issue precedes the UK Jenkins issue is incorrect.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club issue affecting the true first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Spring Fever a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: The UK Herbert Jenkins edition and the US Doubleday edition were both published on the same day, 20 May 1948. Neither precedes the other; they are simultaneous first editions. Collect either as a first, identified by the publisher's first-printing imprint with no later-impression statement.
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. Simultaneous true first in both the UK (Herbert Jenkins) and the US (Doubleday), both dated 20 May 1948. The original record's claim that the US Doubleday issue precedes the UK Jenkins issue is incorrect.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club issue affecting the true first.
I have a first edition of Spring Fever — 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.