The points of issue
Grant first edition; trade edition plus a 1,500-copy signed/numbered two-volume slipcased set (signed by King and Michael Whelan) and a 5,000-copy artist edition signed by Whelan. Illustrated by Michael Whelan.
Is this the true first?
Grant true first; the signed/numbered set is the collectible signed first. Grant limited and artist editions preceded the trade edition.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
N/A; later trade reprint.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Dark Tower VII: The Dark Tower a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Grant first edition; trade edition plus a 1,500-copy signed/numbered two-volume slipcased set (signed by King and Michael Whelan) and a 5,000-copy artist edition signed by Whelan. Illustrated by Michael Whelan.
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. Grant true first; the signed/numbered set is the collectible signed first. Grant limited and artist editions preceded the trade edition.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
N/A; later trade reprint.
I have a first edition of The Dark Tower VII: The Dark Tower — 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.