The points of issue
Standalone novella, not the later collection. Ziesing 1989 hardcover issued as a trade edition and a slipcased limited edition of 400 numbered copies signed by the author and the jacket artist.
Is this the true first?
The Ziesing US hardcover (1989) is the true first book appearance of the novella. The Orbit UK paperback of the same title (1991) is a different, expanded book: a story collection adding several short stories, and is the first UK edition.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
None for the Ziesing edition.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The State of the Art a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Standalone novella, not the later collection. Ziesing 1989 hardcover issued as a trade edition and a slipcased limited edition of 400 numbered copies signed by the author and the jacket artist.
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 Ziesing US hardcover (1989) is the true first book appearance of the novella. The Orbit UK paperback of the same title (1991) is a different, expanded book: a story collection adding several short stories, and is the first UK edition.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
None for the Ziesing edition.
I have a first edition of The State of the Art — 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.