The points of issue
Copyright page states First Edition together with a number line whose lowest number is 2 (Random House's manner for a first printing when the First Edition statement is present). Jacket carries the printed price on the front flap.
Is this the true first?
US Random House is the true first; the UK Fourth Estate edition followed. Note the Random House practice: a first printing shows First Edition together with a number line whose lowest digit is 2.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-of-the-Month Club editions exist: smaller in size, no price on the jacket flap, often with a blind-stamp to the rear board, and lacking the full number line and First Edition statement. Compare against a known trade first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Copyright page states First Edition together with a number line whose lowest number is 2 (Random House's manner for a first printing when the First Edition statement is present). Jacket carries the printed price on the front flap.
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 Random House is the true first; the UK Fourth Estate edition followed. Note the Random House practice: a first printing shows First Edition together with a number line whose lowest digit is 2.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-of-the-Month Club editions exist: smaller in size, no price on the jacket flap, often with a blind-stamp to the rear board, and lacking the full number line and First Edition statement. Compare against a known trade first.
I have a first edition of The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay — 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.