The points of issue
Paperback original in pictorial wrappers from Sun (SUN), New York; no hardcover equivalent was issued, so the wrappers ARE the first edition. Auster's first prose book, a memoir, and scarce.
Is this the true first?
The Sun paperback original is the true first; there is no preceding hardcover. A Penguin paperback also appeared in 1982 and later reissues (Penguin/Faber) follow.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book club edition; the Penguin and later imprints are distinct, separately published editions rather than printings of the Sun book.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Invention of Solitude a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Paperback original in pictorial wrappers from Sun (SUN), New York; no hardcover equivalent was issued, so the wrappers ARE the first edition. Auster's first prose book, a memoir, and scarce.
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 Sun paperback original is the true first; there is no preceding hardcover. A Penguin paperback also appeared in 1982 and later reissues (Penguin/Faber) follow.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book club edition; the Penguin and later imprints are distinct, separately published editions rather than printings of the Sun book.
I have a first edition of The Invention of Solitude — 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.