The points of issue
First printing so stated on the copyright page; price on the jacket flap; cloth-backed boards; jacket illustration by Leo and Diane Dillon. Hugo winner under the Dial Press / James Wade imprint.
Is this the true first?
The US Dial Press hardcover is the true first, preceding the UK Sidgwick & Jackson edition and all paperbacks. Verify the 'First printing' statement on the copyright page; treat any claimed signed/limited state with caution.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The Science Fiction Book Club edition shows a rear-board gutter blindstamp and an unpriced 'Book Club Edition' jacket; the Dial 'First printing' statement is absent.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Snow Queen a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing so stated on the copyright page; price on the jacket flap; cloth-backed boards; jacket illustration by Leo and Diane Dillon. Hugo winner under the Dial Press / James Wade imprint.
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 Dial Press hardcover is the true first, preceding the UK Sidgwick & Jackson edition and all paperbacks. Verify the 'First printing' statement on the copyright page; treat any claimed signed/limited state with caution.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The Science Fiction Book Club edition shows a rear-board gutter blindstamp and an unpriced 'Book Club Edition' jacket; the Dial 'First printing' statement is absent.
I have a first edition of The Snow Queen — 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.