The points of issue
First edition, first impression of Greene's first story collection, issued in first-issue green cloth (later copies in red cloth), pagination vii, 165pp. Contains eight stories including The Basement Room, later filmed as The Fallen Idol.
Is this the true first?
UK Cresset Press true first; no simultaneous US edition.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club issue.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Basement Room and Other Stories a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition, first impression of Greene's first story collection, issued in first-issue green cloth (later copies in red cloth), pagination vii, 165pp. Contains eight stories including The Basement Room, later filmed as The Fallen Idol.
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. UK Cresset Press true first; no simultaneous US edition.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club issue.
I have a first edition of The Basement Room and Other Stories — 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.