The points of issue
Book-length critical study of Thomas M. Disch's story Angouleme. First edition in cloth, issued without dust jacket; 949 trade copies plus 100 numbered copies signed by Delany.
Is this the true first?
US Dragon Press edition (1978) is the true first. Reissued by Wesleyan University Press in 2014.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
None.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The American Shore a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Book-length critical study of Thomas M. Disch's story Angouleme. First edition in cloth, issued without dust jacket; 949 trade copies plus 100 numbered copies signed by Delany.
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 Dragon Press edition (1978) is the true first. Reissued by Wesleyan University Press in 2014.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
None.
I have a first edition of The American Shore — 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.