The points of issue
Ace paperback original, F-403, October 1966, Kelly Freas cover. Expanded from the novella 'He Who Shapes' (Amazing Stories, 1965; 1965 Nebula winner).
Is this the true first?
US Ace paperback original is the true first book edition.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book club edition.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Dream Master a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Ace paperback original, F-403, October 1966, Kelly Freas cover. Expanded from the novella 'He Who Shapes' (Amazing Stories, 1965; 1965 Nebula winner).
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 edition.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book club edition.
I have a first edition of The Dream Master — 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.