The points of issue
The true first states "First Edition" on the copyright page AND carries a complete number line ending in 1 (10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1). Black quarter-bound boards with silver lettering to the spine and red endpapers; jacket carries the printed retail price unclipped. The original record's claim of "no number line" is incorrect — a full number line is present on a genuine first printing.
Is this the true first?
US Putnam is the true first; a key early title published under Koontz's own name following his pseudonym years.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The book club edition lacks the full number line, has an unpriced jacket, shows a blind-stamped code on the rear board, and runs to slightly reduced dimensions. Watch for price-clipped jackets used to disguise BCEs.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Strangers a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: The true first states "First Edition" on the copyright page AND carries a complete number line ending in 1 (10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1). Black quarter-bound boards with silver lettering to the spine and red endpapers; jacket carries the printed retail price unclipped. The original record's claim of "no number line" is incorrect — a full number line is present on a genuine first printing.
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 Putnam is the true first; a key early title published under Koontz's own name following his pseudonym years.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The book club edition lacks the full number line, has an unpriced jacket, shows a blind-stamped code on the rear board, and runs to slightly reduced dimensions. Watch for price-clipped jackets used to disguise BCEs.
I have a first edition of Strangers — 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.