The points of issue
First book publication was the HarperPrism mass-market paperback original (May 1995), in wraps, with a number line; original printed cover price. (Serialized in Analog as 'Hobson's Choice', December 1994 through March 1995.)
Is this the true first?
The true first book edition is the HarperPrism paperback original of 1995. There was no simultaneous US hardcover first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No paperback book club edition; later printings advance the number line and cover price.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Terminal Experiment a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First book publication was the HarperPrism mass-market paperback original (May 1995), in wraps, with a number line; original printed cover price. (Serialized in Analog as 'Hobson's Choice', December 1994 through March 1995.)
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 true first book edition is the HarperPrism paperback original of 1995. There was no simultaneous US hardcover first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No paperback book club edition; later printings advance the number line and cover price.
I have a first edition of The Terminal Experiment — 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.