The points of issue
First printing of Greene's first children's picture book, issued anonymously with neither Greene's name on the book nor jacket. Illustrated by Dorothy Craigie (pseudonym of Dorothy Glover).
Is this the true first?
UK Eyre & Spottiswoode is the true first; published anonymously, with Greene's authorship revealed only later (with the publication of The Little Red Fire Engine).
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The anonymous first issue, lacking Greene's name, is the key point.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Little Train a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing of Greene's first children's picture book, issued anonymously with neither Greene's name on the book nor jacket. Illustrated by Dorothy Craigie (pseudonym of Dorothy Glover).
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. UK Eyre & Spottiswoode is the true first; published anonymously, with Greene's authorship revealed only later (with the publication of The Little Red Fire Engine).
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The anonymous first issue, lacking Greene's name, is the key point.
I have a first edition of The Little Train — 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.