The points of issue
First edition stated 'First Edition' on the copyright page (Harcourt practice of this era), priced dust jacket. Expansion of an earlier short story into a novel.
Is this the true first?
US Harcourt, Brace first, 1957; a UK Frederick Muller edition also appeared in 1957, so the Harcourt is the US first rather than the sole 1957 issue.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book club edition lacks the flap price and bears a small blindstamp on the rear board; it may still carry a 'First Edition' line, so the blindstamp and absent price are the reliable tells.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Deep Range a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition stated 'First Edition' on the copyright page (Harcourt practice of this era), priced dust jacket. Expansion of an earlier short story into a novel.
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 Harcourt, Brace first, 1957; a UK Frederick Muller edition also appeared in 1957, so the Harcourt is the US first rather than the sole 1957 issue.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book club edition lacks the flap price and bears a small blindstamp on the rear board; it may still carry a 'First Edition' line, so the blindstamp and absent price are the reliable tells.
I have a first edition of The Deep Range — 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.