The points of issue
States 'First published 1977' by Duckworth. Fitzgerald's first published work of fiction. Scarce in jacket.
Is this the true first?
The UK Duckworth edition (1977) is the true first; the US edition is far later. The UK strongly precedes.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No notable book-club edition.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Golden Child a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: States 'First published 1977' by Duckworth. Fitzgerald's first published work of fiction. Scarce in jacket.
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. The UK Duckworth edition (1977) is the true first; the US edition is far later. The UK strongly precedes.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No notable book-club edition.
I have a first edition of The Golden Child — 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.