The points of issue
First UK edition, Viking (Penguin), 2012. Slim hardcover, roughly 104 pages, in original boards with dust jacket; 'First published 2012' on the verso with a number line to 1. Shortlisted for the 2013 Man Booker Prize.
Is this the true first?
The UK Viking hardcover (2012) is the true first. The US Scribner hardcover followed (13 November 2012), as did a Canadian McClelland & Stewart edition (2012). Being a slim novel, jacketed firsts are comparatively scarce.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
US Scribner and Canadian McClelland & Stewart editions are distinguished by imprint and date; the UK first is told by the 'First published 2012' statement and number line to 1. No book-club edition noted.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Testament of Mary a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First UK edition, Viking (Penguin), 2012. Slim hardcover, roughly 104 pages, in original boards with dust jacket; 'First published 2012' on the verso with a number line to 1. Shortlisted for the 2013 Man Booker Prize.
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 UK Viking hardcover (2012) is the true first. The US Scribner hardcover followed (13 November 2012), as did a Canadian McClelland & Stewart edition (2012). Being a slim novel, jacketed firsts are comparatively scarce.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
US Scribner and Canadian McClelland & Stewart editions are distinguished by imprint and date; the UK first is told by the 'First published 2012' statement and number line to 1. No book-club edition noted.
I have a first edition of The Testament of Mary — 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.