The points of issue
The true first prints the words FIRST EDITION on the copyright page. Bound in publisher's black cloth with paper labels on the spine and front cover. The first-issue dust jacket carries the printed price on the front flap. A useful distinguisher: the second printing drops the FIRST EDITION statement and carries the year 1932 in Roman numerals on the title page, and some second-printing jackets read 2nd Edition on the inner flap.
Is this the true first?
US Doubleday, Doran 1932 true first, identified by the stated FIRST EDITION on the copyright page.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings lack the FIRST EDITION statement on the copyright page; reprints are clearly marked.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Store a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: The true first prints the words FIRST EDITION on the copyright page. Bound in publisher's black cloth with paper labels on the spine and front cover. The first-issue dust jacket carries the printed price on the front flap. A useful distinguisher: the second printing drops the FIRST EDITION statement and carries the year 1932 in Roman numerals on the title page, and some second-printing jackets read 2nd Edition on the inner flap.
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, Doran 1932 true first, identified by the stated FIRST EDITION on the copyright page.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings lack the FIRST EDITION statement on the copyright page; reprints are clearly marked.
I have a first edition of The Store — 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.