The points of issue
First edition, first printing, first issue: copyright page reads 'First published in March 1942' with NO printer's imprint, and on page 112, line 11, the period between the words 'talk' and 'this' is noticeably larger than the other periods in the book. Bound in blue cloth, spine stamped in silver, front cover blind-stamped. First-issue dust jacket is priced and reads 'The Moon Is Down' at the top of the flap.
Is this the true first?
True US first; precedes the UK Heinemann edition of 1942.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book club editions show Haddon Craftsmen or Kingsport Press on the copyright page, lack the enlarged-period point, and come in an unpriced jacket.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Moon Is Down a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition, first printing, first issue: copyright page reads 'First published in March 1942' with NO printer's imprint, and on page 112, line 11, the period between the words 'talk' and 'this' is noticeably larger than the other periods in the book. Bound in blue cloth, spine stamped in silver, front cover blind-stamped. First-issue dust jacket is priced and reads 'The Moon Is Down' at the top of the flap.
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. True US first; precedes the UK Heinemann edition of 1942.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book club editions show Haddon Craftsmen or Kingsport Press on the copyright page, lack the enlarged-period point, and come in an unpriced jacket.
I have a first edition of The Moon Is Down — 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.