The points of issue
First printing, copyright page stating 'First published 1973'. Green cloth, gilt spine lettering; 335 pages. Novel set in Argentina.
Is this the true first?
The Bodley Head London edition is the true first; a Simon & Schuster (US) edition followed in 1973.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book Club Associates printings appeared later and are not the first edition.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Honorary Consul a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing, copyright page stating 'First published 1973'. Green cloth, gilt spine lettering; 335 pages. Novel set in Argentina.
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 Bodley Head London edition is the true first; a Simon & Schuster (US) edition followed in 1973.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book Club Associates printings appeared later and are not the first edition.
I have a first edition of The Honorary Consul — 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.