The points of issue
First edition published 1984 by Greenwillow Books, New York. First printing states 'First Edition' on the copyright page with a number line ending in 1 (10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1). Green boards with white cloth spine; dust jacket art by David McCall Johnston.
Is this the true first?
US true first. Newbery Medal 1985. Note that the true first is dated 1984 although the Medal was awarded in 1985.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Absence of the 'First Edition' statement or a number line not ending in 1 indicates a later printing; book-club editions are unpriced.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Hero and the Crown a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition published 1984 by Greenwillow Books, New York. First printing states 'First Edition' on the copyright page with a number line ending in 1 (10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1). Green boards with white cloth spine; dust jacket art by David McCall Johnston.
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 true first. Newbery Medal 1985. Note that the true first is dated 1984 although the Medal was awarded in 1985.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Absence of the 'First Edition' statement or a number line not ending in 1 indicates a later printing; book-club editions are unpriced.
I have a first edition of The Hero and the Crown — 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.