The points of issue
First UK edition, William Heinemann, London, 1977. 'First published 1977' stated on the copyright page, with no later impression line. Original boards in dust jacket. Winner of the 1977 Booker Prize; coda to the Raj Quartet.
Is this the true first?
The Heinemann UK edition is the true first; the US William Morrow edition also appeared in 1977 and followed.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The US Morrow edition carries a US imprint and is later within 1977. No prominent book-club edition.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Staying On a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First UK edition, William Heinemann, London, 1977. 'First published 1977' stated on the copyright page, with no later impression line. Original boards in dust jacket. Winner of the 1977 Booker Prize; coda to the Raj Quartet.
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 Heinemann UK edition is the true first; the US William Morrow edition also appeared in 1977 and followed.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The US Morrow edition carries a US imprint and is later within 1977. No prominent book-club edition.
I have a first edition of Staying On — 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.