The points of issue
Byatt's second novel. First published 1967 by Chatto & Windus; red cloth boards with gilt spine lettering and patterned dust jacket. Scarce.
Is this the true first?
UK Chatto & Windus (1967) is the true first; the US Scribner edition followed, the copyright page bearing the code 'A-2.68' (a February 1968 printing date), so US copies are commonly dated 1968 though some dealers catalogue 1967. UK precedes either way.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No notable book-club edition.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Game a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Byatt's second novel. First published 1967 by Chatto & Windus; red cloth boards with gilt spine lettering and patterned dust jacket. Scarce.
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 Chatto & Windus (1967) is the true first; the US Scribner edition followed, the copyright page bearing the code 'A-2.68' (a February 1968 printing date), so US copies are commonly dated 1968 though some dealers catalogue 1967. UK precedes either way.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No notable book-club edition.
I have a first edition of The Game — 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.