The points of issue
Delacorte Press first, 1976, hardcover under the title 'Swag'; copyright page states 'First printing' (stated first printing rather than a number line); first-issue dust jacket with printed flap price.
Is this the true first?
US Delacorte (1976) hardcover titled 'Swag' is the true first published edition. 'Ryan's Rules' (a Dell paperback, 1978) is a later retitle of the same text; the hardcover under 'Swag' precedes it.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
'Ryan's Rules' paperbacks are later issues; book-club copies lack the printed flap price.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Swag (also as Ryan's Rules) a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Delacorte Press first, 1976, hardcover under the title 'Swag'; copyright page states 'First printing' (stated first printing rather than a number line); first-issue dust jacket with printed flap price.
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 Delacorte (1976) hardcover titled 'Swag' is the true first published edition. 'Ryan's Rules' (a Dell paperback, 1978) is a later retitle of the same text; the hardcover under 'Swag' precedes it.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
'Ryan's Rules' paperbacks are later issues; book-club copies lack the printed flap price.
I have a first edition of Swag (also as Ryan's Rules) — 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.