The points of issue
William Morrow hardcover; first printing identified by the complete number line descending to 1 on the copyright page together with the 'First Edition' statement; priced dust jacket. Cloth-backed boards.
Is this the true first?
The US William Morrow 1991 hardcover is the true first edition. Morrow's complete number line plus the 'First Edition' statement marks the first printing.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book club edition: no price on the jacket flap, blind-stamp on the rear board, and it lacks the Morrow number line.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Stations of the Tide a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: William Morrow hardcover; first printing identified by the complete number line descending to 1 on the copyright page together with the 'First Edition' statement; priced dust jacket. Cloth-backed boards.
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. The US William Morrow 1991 hardcover is the true first edition. Morrow's complete number line plus the 'First Edition' statement marks the first printing.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book club edition: no price on the jacket flap, blind-stamp on the rear board, and it lacks the Morrow number line.
I have a first edition of Stations of the Tide — 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.