The points of issue
Heinemann London 1948, in the Heinemann cloth with windmill device; dust jacket priced. First impression with no later-impression statement. UK first precedes US Viking 1948.
Is this the true first?
Heinemann London 1948 is the true first; Viking New York 1948 is the first US.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later impressions noted on verso; US edition distinguished by imprint and pricing.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Heart of the Matter a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Heinemann London 1948, in the Heinemann cloth with windmill device; dust jacket priced. First impression with no later-impression statement. UK first precedes US Viking 1948.
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. Heinemann London 1948 is the true first; Viking New York 1948 is the first US.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later impressions noted on verso; US edition distinguished by imprint and pricing.
I have a first edition of The Heart of the Matter — 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.