The points of issue
First UK Picador hardcover, 2004. Copyright page carries the publisher's first-printing statement and a complete number line including 1; jacket priced in sterling. Published spring 2004. The UK Picador precedes the US Scribner edition of 2004.
Is this the true first?
The UK Picador 2004 hardcover is the true first; the US Scribner edition (2004) is a first-thus. Booker-shortlisted; IMPAC Dublin winner.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club edition traced. Distinguish the UK Picador first (complete number line including 1) from the US Scribner printing, which uses its own split number line.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Master a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First UK Picador hardcover, 2004. Copyright page carries the publisher's first-printing statement and a complete number line including 1; jacket priced in sterling. Published spring 2004. The UK Picador precedes the US Scribner edition of 2004.
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 2004 hardcover is the true first; the US Scribner edition (2004) is a first-thus. Booker-shortlisted; IMPAC Dublin winner.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club edition traced. Distinguish the UK Picador first (complete number line including 1) from the US Scribner printing, which uses its own split number line.
I have a first edition of The Master — 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.