The points of issue
First printing, first impression; Powell's last novel. Dark blue boards with silver spine lettering; dust jacket priced at nine pounds ninety-five net.
Is this the true first?
UK Heinemann is the true first (London, 1986); US Norton issued 1986.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club issue.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Fisher King a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing, first impression; Powell's last novel. Dark blue boards with silver spine lettering; dust jacket priced at nine pounds ninety-five net.
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. UK Heinemann is the true first (London, 1986); US Norton issued 1986.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club issue.
I have a first edition of The Fisher King — 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.