The points of issue
True first is the paperback original, Fawcett Gold Medal d1958 (1969), 50 cents. Leonard's first crime novel and first contemporary (non-Western) novel; rejected by many publishers and issued as a PBO. Gold Medal logo and catalog number; first printing has no later-printing statement. A key, sought Leonard PBO.
Is this the true first?
Paperback is the true first. Reissued repeatedly (and after the 1969 and 2004 films); those are reprints/first-thus. There was no contemporaneous hardcover.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club edition. First Gold Medal d1958 printing carries the original 50-cent price; later printings raise price and add printing data; tie-ins postdate the films.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Big Bounce a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: True first is the paperback original, Fawcett Gold Medal d1958 (1969), 50 cents. Leonard's first crime novel and first contemporary (non-Western) novel; rejected by many publishers and issued as a PBO. Gold Medal logo and catalog number; first printing has no later-printing statement. A key, sought Leonard PBO.
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. Paperback is the true first. Reissued repeatedly (and after the 1969 and 2004 films); those are reprints/first-thus. There was no contemporaneous hardcover.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club edition. First Gold Medal d1958 printing carries the original 50-cent price; later printings raise price and add printing data; tie-ins postdate the films.
I have a first edition of The Big Bounce — 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.