The points of issue
Doubleday copyright page states 'FIRST EDITION' with a full number line descending to 1; Doubleday anchor colophon. ISBN 0-385-49215-4 (9780385492157). Published July 1998. Bender's debut story collection and a New York Times Notable Book; the most collected Bender title, with signed and inscribed copies sought after.
Is this the true first?
US Doubleday hardcover (1998) is the true first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club editions are lighter, lack the number line and the printed flap price, and may show a small blind-stamped dot or square on the rear board.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Girl in the Flammable Skirt a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Doubleday copyright page states 'FIRST EDITION' with a full number line descending to 1; Doubleday anchor colophon. ISBN 0-385-49215-4 (9780385492157). Published July 1998. Bender's debut story collection and a New York Times Notable Book; the most collected Bender title, with signed and inscribed copies sought after.
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 Doubleday hardcover (1998) is the true first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club editions are lighter, lack the number line and the printed flap price, and may show a small blind-stamped dot or square on the rear board.
I have a first edition of The Girl in the Flammable Skirt — 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.