The points of issue
First printing is identified by a complete number line ending in 1 on the copyright page and the Farrar, Straus and Giroux imprint. The dust jacket front flap carries the original printed price, and the rear panel bears a blurb by David Foster Wallace, which is characteristic of the first issue. Half red cloth over black boards with gilt spine lettering. ISBN 0-374-27105-4.
Is this the true first?
The US Farrar, Straus and Giroux hardcover is the true first; the British edition follows. Franzen's second novel, scarcer than the later bestsellers.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club edition issue identified; later reissues are Picador trade paperbacks.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Corrections (advance proof) — instead: Strong Motion a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing is identified by a complete number line ending in 1 on the copyright page and the Farrar, Straus and Giroux imprint. The dust jacket front flap carries the original printed price, and the rear panel bears a blurb by David Foster Wallace, which is characteristic of the first issue. Half red cloth over black boards with gilt spine lettering. ISBN 0-374-27105-4.
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 Farrar, Straus and Giroux hardcover is the true first; the British edition follows. Franzen's second novel, scarcer than the later bestsellers.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club edition issue identified; later reissues are Picador trade paperbacks.
I have a first edition of The Corrections (advance proof) — instead: Strong Motion — 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.