The points of issue
First edition, Andre Deutsch, London, 1965. Orange boards with the spine lettered and ruled in gilt; dust jacket priced 21s. Soyinka's first novel.
Is this the true first?
Andre Deutsch London 1965 is the true first edition. The African Writers Series paperback (AWS #76, 1970) is a later first-thus paperback.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
AWS paperback (1970) and later printings are reprints. Tells of the reprint: series number and printed wrappers.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Interpreters a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition, Andre Deutsch, London, 1965. Orange boards with the spine lettered and ruled in gilt; dust jacket priced 21s. Soyinka's first novel.
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. Andre Deutsch London 1965 is the true first edition. The African Writers Series paperback (AWS #76, 1970) is a later first-thus paperback.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
AWS paperback (1970) and later printings are reprints. Tells of the reprint: series number and printed wrappers.
I have a first edition of The Interpreters — 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.