The points of issue
First printing with no later-printing statement on the copyright page. Wouk's second novel (full title 'The City Boy: The Adventures of Herbie Bookbinder').
Is this the true first?
US Simon & Schuster is the true first; a UK edition followed later.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings are noted on the copyright page.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The City Boy a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing with no later-printing statement on the copyright page. Wouk's second novel (full title 'The City Boy: The Adventures of Herbie Bookbinder').
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 Simon & Schuster is the true first; a UK edition followed later.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings are noted on the copyright page.
I have a first edition of The City Boy — 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.