The points of issue
Atheneum (Margaret K. McElderry Books) hardcover, cloth-backed boards, 226 pages; first printing identified by the 'First Edition' statement together with a full number line ending in 1 on the copyright page; priced dust jacket. The first-edition jacket and title carry the subtitle 'The Last Book of Earthsea.'
Is this the true first?
The US Atheneum/McElderry 1990 hardcover is the true first edition, identified by the 'First Edition' statement plus a full number line ending in 1. UK editions were issued separately and do not precede it.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book club editions exist; they are typically identified by an unpriced or clipped jacket stating Book Club Edition and lack the trade 'First Edition' statement and number line.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Tehanu a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Atheneum (Margaret K. McElderry Books) hardcover, cloth-backed boards, 226 pages; first printing identified by the 'First Edition' statement together with a full number line ending in 1 on the copyright page; priced dust jacket. The first-edition jacket and title carry the subtitle 'The Last Book of Earthsea.'
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 US Atheneum/McElderry 1990 hardcover is the true first edition, identified by the 'First Edition' statement plus a full number line ending in 1. UK editions were issued separately and do not precede it.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book club editions exist; they are typically identified by an unpriced or clipped jacket stating Book Club Edition and lack the trade 'First Edition' statement and number line.
I have a first edition of Tehanu — 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.