The points of issue
London: Chatto & Windus, 1958 (Murdoch's fourth novel). Green cloth boards with gilt spine lettering; first-issue dust jacket designed by Charles Mozley and priced 15s on the front flap. First edition, first impression.
Is this the true first?
UK Chatto & Windus (1958) precedes the US Viking edition (also 1958).
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later impressions add printing statements. Confirm a first by the 15s jacket price (unclipped) and the absence of any later impression line.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Bell a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: London: Chatto & Windus, 1958 (Murdoch's fourth novel). Green cloth boards with gilt spine lettering; first-issue dust jacket designed by Charles Mozley and priced 15s on the front flap. First edition, first impression.
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 Chatto & Windus (1958) precedes the US Viking edition (also 1958).
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later impressions add printing statements. Confirm a first by the 15s jacket price (unclipped) and the absence of any later impression line.
I have a first edition of The Bell — 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.