The points of issue
First printing states 'First Printing' on the copyright page with no later-printing statement. Issued in black cloth boards with a red title panel and gilt spine lettering, red endpapers, and dust jacket.
Is this the true first?
US first (Random House, New York, 1962); UK Cresset Press 1962.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
A book club edition exists; it lacks the 'First Printing' statement and is typically identified by a blind-stamp to the board and a price-clipped or unpriced jacket.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Big Laugh a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing states 'First Printing' on the copyright page with no later-printing statement. Issued in black cloth boards with a red title panel and gilt spine lettering, red endpapers, and dust jacket.
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 first (Random House, New York, 1962); UK Cresset Press 1962.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
A book club edition exists; it lacks the 'First Printing' statement and is typically identified by a blind-stamp to the board and a price-clipped or unpriced jacket.
I have a first edition of The Big Laugh — 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.