The points of issue
Scribner first states 'First Edition' on the copyright page with a complete number line descending to 1, the Scribner colophon present, and the first-issue jacket carrying the printed flap price. Bylined 'E. Annie Proulx,' a form she largely dropped on later books.
Is this the true first?
The US Scribner 1993 hardcover is the true first; the UK Fourth Estate edition follows. The 'E. Annie Proulx' byline is consistent with the first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-of-the-Month Club and other club editions lack the 'First Edition' statement and full number line, are commonly blind-stamped on the rear board, and have an unpriced jacket.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Shipping News a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Scribner first states 'First Edition' on the copyright page with a complete number line descending to 1, the Scribner colophon present, and the first-issue jacket carrying the printed flap price. Bylined 'E. Annie Proulx,' a form she largely dropped on later books.
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 Scribner 1993 hardcover is the true first; the UK Fourth Estate edition follows. The 'E. Annie Proulx' byline is consistent with the first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-of-the-Month Club and other club editions lack the 'First Edition' statement and full number line, are commonly blind-stamped on the rear board, and have an unpriced jacket.
I have a first edition of The Shipping News — 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.