The points of issue
First edition published 1970 by The Viking Press, New York. The true first printing states First published in 1970 by The Viking Press on the copyright page; some copies additionally show a number line ending in 1. Illustrated by Ted CoConis; cloth with swans stamped on the front board, in a pictorial dust jacket; first-state jacket lacks the Newbery seal.
Is this the true first?
United States true first. Awarded the Newbery Medal in 1971, so first-printing jackets predate the seal.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later Viking printings add further printing statements or advance the number line. Book-club copies lack a printed jacket price; post-award jackets add the Newbery seal.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Summer of the Swans a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition published 1970 by The Viking Press, New York. The true first printing states First published in 1970 by The Viking Press on the copyright page; some copies additionally show a number line ending in 1. Illustrated by Ted CoConis; cloth with swans stamped on the front board, in a pictorial dust jacket; first-state jacket lacks the Newbery seal.
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. United States true first. Awarded the Newbery Medal in 1971, so first-printing jackets predate the seal.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later Viking printings add further printing statements or advance the number line. Book-club copies lack a printed jacket price; post-award jackets add the Newbery seal.
I have a first edition of Summer of the Swans — 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.