The points of issue
Paperback original in pictorial wrappers with cover art by Alejandro Romero; no hardcover true first exists. Arte Publico Press, Houston, 1984, reportedly in a small first print run of about 500 copies. Original wrappers, often with spine sunning. ISBN 0-934770-20-0.
Is this the true first?
The Arte Publico 1984 wrappers issue is the true first. The later Vintage edition is a 'first thus' reprint, not the first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club issue. Beware later Arte Publico printings (check for added printing lines) and the clearly different Vintage reissue.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The House on Mango Street a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Paperback original in pictorial wrappers with cover art by Alejandro Romero; no hardcover true first exists. Arte Publico Press, Houston, 1984, reportedly in a small first print run of about 500 copies. Original wrappers, often with spine sunning. ISBN 0-934770-20-0.
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 Arte Publico 1984 wrappers issue is the true first. The later Vintage edition is a 'first thus' reprint, not the first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club issue. Beware later Arte Publico printings (check for added printing lines) and the clearly different Vintage reissue.
I have a first edition of The House on Mango Street — 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.