The points of issue
Ace Double D-249, a dos-a-dos paperback original bound back-to-back with 'Sargasso of Space' by Andre Norton writing as Andrew North; cover art by Ed Emshwiller.
Is this the true first?
US Ace paperback original is the true first book appearance (expanded from a 1956 magazine story).
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book club edition; paperback original only.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Cosmic Puppets a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Ace Double D-249, a dos-a-dos paperback original bound back-to-back with 'Sargasso of Space' by Andre Norton writing as Andrew North; cover art by Ed Emshwiller.
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 Ace paperback original is the true first book appearance (expanded from a 1956 magazine story).
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book club edition; paperback original only.
I have a first edition of The Cosmic Puppets — 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.