The points of issue
Heinemann first edition, 1965 (le Carré moved from Gollancz to Heinemann for this title). Publisher's black paper-covered boards with the spine stamped in silver, in the first-issue Heinemann jacket. Verso carries a single 'First published 1965' line with no later-impression statement.
Is this the true first?
UK Heinemann (1965) is the true first; US Coward-McCann (1965) followed. Note the publisher change from Gollancz to Heinemann beginning with this book.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later impressions add printing lines to the verso; book-club copies are reset and lack the original UK jacket price.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Looking Glass War a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Heinemann first edition, 1965 (le Carré moved from Gollancz to Heinemann for this title). Publisher's black paper-covered boards with the spine stamped in silver, in the first-issue Heinemann jacket. Verso carries a single 'First published 1965' line with no later-impression 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. UK Heinemann (1965) is the true first; US Coward-McCann (1965) followed. Note the publisher change from Gollancz to Heinemann beginning with this book.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later impressions add printing lines to the verso; book-club copies are reset and lack the original UK jacket price.
I have a first edition of The Looking Glass War — 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.