The points of issue
Hardback in boards with gilt-titled spine, in dust jacket; first printing identified by a complete number line ending in 1. Booker-longlisted.
Is this the true first?
UK Sceptre (2014) precedes the US Random House edition (2014). Note that a signed and numbered slipcased limited edition of 500 copies was issued by Sceptre alongside the trade first, and separate signed/limited states exist (for example a Goldsboro issue); these are distinct from the ordinary trade first printing.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings carry an impression statement and the number line no longer ends in 1.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Bone Clocks a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Hardback in boards with gilt-titled spine, in dust jacket; first printing identified by a complete number line ending in 1. Booker-longlisted.
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 Sceptre (2014) precedes the US Random House edition (2014). Note that a signed and numbered slipcased limited edition of 500 copies was issued by Sceptre alongside the trade first, and separate signed/limited states exist (for example a Goldsboro issue); these are distinct from the ordinary trade
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings carry an impression statement and the number line no longer ends in 1.
I have a first edition of The Bone Clocks — 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.