The points of issue
New Directions, New York, 1961. Issued simultaneously in clothbound hardcover and as a New Directions Paperbook; the clothbound hardcover in dust jacket is the collected first state. Introduction by Leslie A. Fiedler; the first printing carries no later-printing statement.
Is this the true first?
The US New Directions edition is the true first. The hardcover was issued alongside a paperbook; the clothbound hardcover in jacket is the premium state and is notably scarcer than the paperbook.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings are noted on the copyright page; no significant book-club edition.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Lime Twig a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: New Directions, New York, 1961. Issued simultaneously in clothbound hardcover and as a New Directions Paperbook; the clothbound hardcover in dust jacket is the collected first state. Introduction by Leslie A. Fiedler; the first printing carries no later-printing statement.
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 US New Directions edition is the true first. The hardcover was issued alongside a paperbook; the clothbound hardcover in jacket is the premium state and is notably scarcer than the paperbook.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings are noted on the copyright page; no significant book-club edition.
I have a first edition of The Lime Twig — 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.