The points of issue
First edition, first printing has 'First published September 1936' on the copyright page with no later-printing statement, bound in pink/decorated paper-covered boards backed with a tan cloth spine (small octavo), pictorial endpapers, Robert Lawson illustrations; first-issue jacket carries the original price on the front flap.
Is this the true first?
US Viking Press 1936 is the true first; the Hamish Hamilton UK edition is later. First printings in jacket are scarce.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club editions carry a blind-stamp and drop the original price; later Viking printings note additional impressions and omit the 'First published September 1936' line.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Story of Ferdinand a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition, first printing has 'First published September 1936' on the copyright page with no later-printing statement, bound in pink/decorated paper-covered boards backed with a tan cloth spine (small octavo), pictorial endpapers, Robert Lawson illustrations; first-issue jacket carries the original price on the front 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 Viking Press 1936 is the true first; the Hamish Hamilton UK edition is later. First printings in jacket are scarce.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club editions carry a blind-stamp and drop the original price; later Viking printings note additional impressions and omit the 'First published September 1936' line.
I have a first edition of The Story of Ferdinand — 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.