The points of issue
First UK hardcover, Bloomsbury 1987, stating 'First published 1987' (ISBN 0747500347). Won the John Llewellyn Rhys Prize. Jacket priced and unclipped.
Is this the true first?
The UK Bloomsbury 1987 hardcover is the true first; the US Atlantic Monthly Press edition followed in 1988, so the UK precedes.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No notable book-club edition.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Passion a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First UK hardcover, Bloomsbury 1987, stating 'First published 1987' (ISBN 0747500347). Won the John Llewellyn Rhys Prize. Jacket priced and unclipped.
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 Bloomsbury 1987 hardcover is the true first; the US Atlantic Monthly Press edition followed in 1988, so the UK precedes.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No notable book-club edition.
I have a first edition of The Passion — 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.