The points of issue
"First Edition" stated on the copyright page; the first-issue dust jacket carries the printed price (6.95) and is unclipped. Doctorow's third novel and his breakthrough, a key collected title.
Is this the true first?
The US Random House printing is the true first; the UK Macmillan edition (1972) follows.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings drop the "First Edition" line or add a printing statement; book club issues are smaller, lack the printed jacket price, and may show a blind stamp on the rear board.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Book of Daniel a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: "First Edition" stated on the copyright page; the first-issue dust jacket carries the printed price (6.95) and is unclipped. Doctorow's third novel and his breakthrough, a key collected title.
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. The US Random House printing is the true first; the UK Macmillan edition (1972) follows.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings drop the "First Edition" line or add a printing statement; book club issues are smaller, lack the printed jacket price, and may show a blind stamp on the rear board.
I have a first edition of The Book of Daniel — 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.