The points of issue
'FIRST EDITION' stated on the copyright page with a complete number line descending to 1; Little, Brown imprint. Navy cloth over yellow boards stamped in gold; dust jacket with the publisher's original flap price intact and unclipped. Moody's second book.
Is this the true first?
US Little, Brown hardcover (Boston, 1994) is the true first; a UK edition followed as a separate first-thus.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club editions lack the number line and the flap price, are lighter in weight, and may carry a small blind-stamped dot on the rear board.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Ice Storm a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: 'FIRST EDITION' stated on the copyright page with a complete number line descending to 1; Little, Brown imprint. Navy cloth over yellow boards stamped in gold; dust jacket with the publisher's original flap price intact and unclipped. Moody's second book.
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 Little, Brown hardcover (Boston, 1994) is the true first; a UK edition followed as a separate first-thus.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club editions lack the number line and the flap price, are lighter in weight, and may carry a small blind-stamped dot on the rear board.
I have a first edition of The Ice Storm — 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.