The points of issue
First trade edition, Macmillan, cloth in dust jacket; first printing identified by the copyright page. (Note: bootleg/pirated copies circulated 1966–1971 before authorized publication.) The authorized first is the 1971 Macmillan.
Is this the true first?
Macmillan US (1971) is the true authorized first; the UK edition (Macmillan London / later Cape) follows. Pre-1971 pirated/bootleg printings exist and should not be taken as the authorized first. Confirm the 1971 Macmillan imprint and first-printing copyright page.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Not a book club. Key trap: unauthorized bootleg printings (1966–71) vs. the authorized 1971 Macmillan first. Verify imprint and date.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Tarantula a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First trade edition, Macmillan, cloth in dust jacket; first printing identified by the copyright page. (Note: bootleg/pirated copies circulated 1966–1971 before authorized publication.) The authorized first is the 1971 Macmillan.
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. Macmillan US (1971) is the true authorized first; the UK edition (Macmillan London / later Cape) follows. Pre-1971 pirated/bootleg printings exist and should not be taken as the authorized first. Confirm the 1971 Macmillan imprint and first-printing copyright page.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Not a book club. Key trap: unauthorized bootleg printings (1966–71) vs. the authorized 1971 Macmillan first. Verify imprint and date.
I have a first edition of Tarantula — 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.