The points of issue
Random House first printing: "First Edition" stated on the copyright page together with a number line whose lowest number is 2 (Random House dropped the 1 on first printings of this era). The unclipped jacket carries the printed price. Irving's second novel; scarce.
Is this the true first?
The US Random House edition is the true first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Reprints omit the "First Edition" statement; the number line will not retain a 2 as its lowest figure on later printings.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Water-Method Man a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Random House first printing: "First Edition" stated on the copyright page together with a number line whose lowest number is 2 (Random House dropped the 1 on first printings of this era). The unclipped jacket carries the printed price. Irving's second novel; scarce.
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 Random House edition is the true first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Reprints omit the "First Edition" statement; the number line will not retain a 2 as its lowest figure on later printings.
I have a first edition of The Water-Method Man — 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.