The points of issue
Random House first printing has 'First Edition' stated on the copyright page with a full descending number line ending in 1. The first-issue cloth and jacket carry the printed jacket price. The number line ending in 1 is the decisive point.
Is this the true first?
The US Random House 2012 hardcover is the true first edition; 'First Edition' plus a number line ending in 1 confirms a first printing. The 2013 Pulitzer followed the board declining to award a 2012 Fiction prize.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club editions lack the 'First Edition' statement and number line and usually show a rear-board blind-stamp.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Orphan Master's Son a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Random House first printing has 'First Edition' stated on the copyright page with a full descending number line ending in 1. The first-issue cloth and jacket carry the printed jacket price. The number line ending in 1 is the decisive point.
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 Random House 2012 hardcover is the true first edition; 'First Edition' plus a number line ending in 1 confirms a first printing. The 2013 Pulitzer followed the board declining to award a 2012 Fiction prize.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club editions lack the 'First Edition' statement and number line and usually show a rear-board blind-stamp.
I have a first edition of The Orphan Master's Son — 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.