The points of issue
First UK edition, Picador, London, 2004. 'First published 2004 by Picador' on the copyright page with a full number line descending to 1. Original boards in unclipped dust jacket priced 16.99 pounds. Winner of the 2004 Booker Prize.
Is this the true first?
The UK Picador edition is the true first. The US edition (Bloomsbury USA) followed in 2004.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The US edition is distinguished by imprint and US pricing. The UK first impression is identified by the number line descending to 1. No prominent book club edition.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Line of Beauty a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First UK edition, Picador, London, 2004. 'First published 2004 by Picador' on the copyright page with a full number line descending to 1. Original boards in unclipped dust jacket priced 16.99 pounds. Winner of the 2004 Booker Prize.
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 UK Picador edition is the true first. The US edition (Bloomsbury USA) followed in 2004.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The US edition is distinguished by imprint and US pricing. The UK first impression is identified by the number line descending to 1. No prominent book club edition.
I have a first edition of The Line of Beauty — 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.