The points of issue
YA. US Tor Teen hardcover published May 14, 2013; first printing states First Edition with a number line down to 1. Interior illustrations by Ben McSweeney.
Is this the true first?
US Tor Teen edition is the true first; the UK Orion Children's edition followed days later in May 2013.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings drop the 1 from the number line.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Rithmatist a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: YA. US Tor Teen hardcover published May 14, 2013; first printing states First Edition with a number line down to 1. Interior illustrations by Ben McSweeney.
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 Tor Teen edition is the true first; the UK Orion Children's edition followed days later in May 2013.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings drop the 1 from the number line.
I have a first edition of The Rithmatist — 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.