The points of issue
The first Far Side book collection, published by Andrews and McMeel, 1982, oversized paperback, ISBN 0-8362-1200-2, described on the back cover as the first collection of The Far Side. The true first is the 1982 paperback; later printings are common and identified by a number line. The two-volume boxed hardcover Complete Far Side (Andrews McMeel, 2003) is a separate omnibus first-thus, not the first collection.
Is this the true first?
US true first of the first Far Side collection, 1982 paperback from Andrews and McMeel. The strip was syndicated through Chronicle Features, but the book itself was an Andrews and McMeel title. The 2003 Complete Far Side boxed set is the omnibus first and should not be confused with the 1982 first collection.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club edition. Later printings are common; verify the 1982 first printing and the absence of a higher number line. The 2003 Complete Far Side set is later and distinct.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Far Side (first collection) a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: The first Far Side book collection, published by Andrews and McMeel, 1982, oversized paperback, ISBN 0-8362-1200-2, described on the back cover as the first collection of The Far Side. The true first is the 1982 paperback; later printings are common and identified by a number line. The two-volume boxed hardcover Complete Far Side (Andrews McMeel, 2003) is a separate omnibus first-thus, not the first collection.
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 true first of the first Far Side collection, 1982 paperback from Andrews and McMeel. The strip was syndicated through Chronicle Features, but the book itself was an Andrews and McMeel title. The 2003 Complete Far Side boxed set is the omnibus first and should not be confused with the 1982 first c
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club edition. Later printings are common; verify the 1982 first printing and the absence of a higher number line. The 2003 Complete Far Side set is later and distinct.
I have a first edition of The Far Side (first collection) — 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.