The points of issue
First edition: 1961, distributed by Random House (Epstein & Carroll association); copyright page states 'First Edition'; first-issue dust jacket priced the printed price with Jules Feiffer art and no later-printing statement.
Is this the true first?
US (Epstein & Carroll / Random House) is the true first. The 'First Edition' statement plus the Feiffer jacket at the printed price define it.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club editions omit 'First Edition,' lack the jacket price, and are reduced in size with a board blind-stamp.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Phantom Tollbooth a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition: 1961, distributed by Random House (Epstein & Carroll association); copyright page states 'First Edition'; first-issue dust jacket priced the printed price with Jules Feiffer art and no later-printing statement.
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. US (Epstein & Carroll / Random House) is the true first. The 'First Edition' statement plus the Feiffer jacket at the printed price define it.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club editions omit 'First Edition,' lack the jacket price, and are reduced in size with a board blind-stamp.
I have a first edition of The Phantom Tollbooth — 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.