The points of issue
First UK edition, Geoffrey Bles, 1960; publisher's grey cloth lettered in red, pictorial dust jacket designed by Michael Harvey; verso states first publication in 1960 with no later impressions listed.
Is this the true first?
UK Geoffrey Bles true first, published March 1960; the US Harcourt Brace edition followed later the same year.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings list additional impressions on the verso; book club and later reprints differ.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Four Loves a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First UK edition, Geoffrey Bles, 1960; publisher's grey cloth lettered in red, pictorial dust jacket designed by Michael Harvey; verso states first publication in 1960 with no later impressions listed.
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 Geoffrey Bles true first, published March 1960; the US Harcourt Brace edition followed later the same year.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings list additional impressions on the verso; book club and later reprints differ.
I have a first edition of The Four Loves — 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.