The points of issue
"First Edition" stated on the copyright page. Issued in cloth with a dust jacket carrying a the printed price on the front flap (first-issue jacket unclipped).
Is this the true first?
US Doubleday is the true first edition (published February 1951). The story had earlier appeared serialized in Galaxy as "Tyrann," but the Doubleday hardcover is the first book appearance.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book club editions omit the "First Edition" statement on the copyright page, carry a blind-stamped device on the lower rear board, and lack the priced first-issue jacket.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Stars, Like Dust a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: "First Edition" stated on the copyright page. Issued in cloth with a dust jacket carrying a the printed price on the front flap (first-issue jacket 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. US Doubleday is the true first edition (published February 1951). The story had earlier appeared serialized in Galaxy as "Tyrann," but the Doubleday hardcover is the first book appearance.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book club editions omit the "First Edition" statement on the copyright page, carry a blind-stamped device on the lower rear board, and lack the priced first-issue jacket.
I have a first edition of The Stars, Like Dust — 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.