The points of issue
Hardcover, published 14 July 2020, ISBN 9781982136451. The first printing shows a full descending number line ending in 1 on the copyright page (a line whose lowest digit is 3 indicates a third printing, and so on), with a first-state jacket priced as issued. Won the Bram Stoker Award for Superior Achievement in a Novel for 2020.
Is this the true first?
The US Saga Press 2020 hardcover is the true first. The UK Titan edition (2021) is a later, separate edition. The book sold through quickly, so genuine first printings are less common than the print run might suggest.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club edition. Later printings carry a number line whose lowest digit is greater than 1. Saga Press relies on the number line rather than a 'First Edition' slug, so verify the line ends in 1.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Only Good Indians a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Hardcover, published 14 July 2020, ISBN 9781982136451. The first printing shows a full descending number line ending in 1 on the copyright page (a line whose lowest digit is 3 indicates a third printing, and so on), with a first-state jacket priced as issued. Won the Bram Stoker Award for Superior Achievement in a Novel for 2020.
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 US Saga Press 2020 hardcover is the true first. The UK Titan edition (2021) is a later, separate edition. The book sold through quickly, so genuine first printings are less common than the print run might suggest.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club edition. Later printings carry a number line whose lowest digit is greater than 1. Saga Press relies on the number line rather than a 'First Edition' slug, so verify the line ends in 1.
I have a first edition of The Only Good Indians — 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.