The points of issue
"First printing" stated on the copyright page; half black cloth with green paper boards. Percy's last novel. First-issue dust jacket priced 17.95. A separate signed limited edition was issued by the Franklin Library (full green leather, raised bands, all edges gilt, with a special message from the author), not by FSG.
Is this the true first?
US (FSG) trade hardcover is the true first; the UK edition (Andre Deutsch, 1987) follows. The Franklin Library signed leather edition is a separately produced premium, not an FSG trade variant.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book club edition lacks the printing statement; the key distinction is FSG trade first versus the Franklin Library signed leather edition.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Thanatos Syndrome a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: "First printing" stated on the copyright page; half black cloth with green paper boards. Percy's last novel. First-issue dust jacket priced 17.95. A separate signed limited edition was issued by the Franklin Library (full green leather, raised bands, all edges gilt, with a special message from the author), not by FSG.
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 (FSG) trade hardcover is the true first; the UK edition (Andre Deutsch, 1987) follows. The Franklin Library signed leather edition is a separately produced premium, not an FSG trade variant.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book club edition lacks the printing statement; the key distinction is FSG trade first versus the Franklin Library signed leather edition.
I have a first edition of The Thanatos Syndrome — 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.