The points of issue
First edition 2006, Atheneum Books for Young Readers / Richard Jackson Books (New York). First printing states 'First Edition' on the copyright page with a complete number line ending in 1; copyright 2006. Illustrated by Matt Phelan; red boards; first-state color pictorial dust jacket has no Newbery seal.
Is this the true first?
US true first edition. Newbery Medal awarded 2007.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Atheneum reprints drop the 'First Edition' line or show a number line ending in a higher digit (e.g. a line to 2 = second printing); post-award jackets add the Newbery seal; book-club editions lack a price on the flap.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Higher Power of Lucky a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition 2006, Atheneum Books for Young Readers / Richard Jackson Books (New York). First printing states 'First Edition' on the copyright page with a complete number line ending in 1; copyright 2006. Illustrated by Matt Phelan; red boards; first-state color pictorial dust jacket has no Newbery seal.
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 edition. Newbery Medal awarded 2007.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Atheneum reprints drop the 'First Edition' line or show a number line ending in a higher digit (e.g. a line to 2 = second printing); post-award jackets add the Newbery seal; book-club editions lack a price on the flap.
I have a first edition of The Higher Power of Lucky — 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.