The points of issue
First printing, London, Methuen, 8 March 1917. Contains 'Extricating Young Gussie,' the first appearance in book form of Jeeves and Bertie Wooster. Wartime paper shortages meant small print runs, so the true first is scarce.
Is this the true first?
UK Methuen 1917 is the true first; the US (A.L. Burt) edition came much later. The first Jeeves appearance is the key point of interest.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club issue.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Man with Two Left Feet and Other Stories a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing, London, Methuen, 8 March 1917. Contains 'Extricating Young Gussie,' the first appearance in book form of Jeeves and Bertie Wooster. Wartime paper shortages meant small print runs, so the true first is 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. UK Methuen 1917 is the true first; the US (A.L. Burt) edition came much later. The first Jeeves appearance is the key point of interest.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club issue.
I have a first edition of The Man with Two Left Feet and Other Stories — 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.