The points of issue
Two distinct 2000 states. The Subterranean Press limited edition (signed, 400 numbered plus 26 lettered copies, illustrated) was published roughly May 2000 and is set from Lansdale's longer original manuscript. The Mysterious Press trade hardcover, with the standard text, followed about six months later; its first printing states 'First Edition' with a complete number line down to 1 and carries the printed price on the first-issue jacket. Winner of the Edgar Award for Best Novel (2001).
Is this the true first?
Correction: the Subterranean Press limited edition (2000) precedes the Mysterious Press trade edition by roughly six months and uses a different (uncut) text, making it the true first edition of the work. The Mysterious Press hardcover (2000) is the first trade edition and the first appearance of the published text. Buyers should specify which they want, as the two are textually different.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club editions of the trade text are common: blind-stamp to the rear board and no price on the jacket.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Bottoms a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Two distinct 2000 states. The Subterranean Press limited edition (signed, 400 numbered plus 26 lettered copies, illustrated) was published roughly May 2000 and is set from Lansdale's longer original manuscript. The Mysterious Press trade hardcover, with the standard text, followed about six months later; its first printing states 'First Edition' with a complete number line down to 1 and carries the printed price on the first-issue jacket. Winner of the Edgar Award for Best Novel (2001).
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. Correction: the Subterranean Press limited edition (2000) precedes the Mysterious Press trade edition by roughly six months and uses a different (uncut) text, making it the true first edition of the work. The Mysterious Press hardcover (2000) is the first trade edition and the first appearance of th
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club editions of the trade text are common: blind-stamp to the rear board and no price on the jacket.
I have a first edition of The Bottoms — 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.