The points of issue
First edition published by The World Publishing Company (Cleveland/New York), 1969, with die-cut pages. First printing has the World Publishing imprint and no later-printing statement; first-issue jacket priced the printed price. The die-cut/board construction of the true first was printed in Japan.
Is this the true first?
The US World Publishing edition is generally taken as the true first (1969). A UK Hamish Hamilton edition appeared the same year; precedence is close, but the World Publishing imprint copy is the collected first. Later editions moved to Philomel/Putnam.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club and later Philomel/Putnam printings carry different imprints, updated copyright pages, and lack the World Publishing imprint; club copies omit the jacket price.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Very Hungry Caterpillar a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition published by The World Publishing Company (Cleveland/New York), 1969, with die-cut pages. First printing has the World Publishing imprint and no later-printing statement; first-issue jacket priced the printed price. The die-cut/board construction of the true first was printed in Japan.
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 US World Publishing edition is generally taken as the true first (1969). A UK Hamish Hamilton edition appeared the same year; precedence is close, but the World Publishing imprint copy is the collected first. Later editions moved to Philomel/Putnam.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club and later Philomel/Putnam printings carry different imprints, updated copyright pages, and lack the World Publishing imprint; club copies omit the jacket price.
I have a first edition of The Very Hungry Caterpillar — 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.