The points of issue
First edition is the Ace Science Fiction Specials paperback original (1984), Robinson's first novel and the first title in the revived Ace Specials line edited by Terry Carr. Identified by the first-printing copyright statement and number line complete to 1, in pictorial wrappers; there was no prior hardcover. Won the 1985 Locus Award for Best First Novel.
Is this the true first?
The true first is the Ace Special paperback original (1984). A Tor hardcover appeared later (1990); the paperback original has priority. Signed copies of the Ace PBO are the collectible first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Not a book club title in its first form. Distinguish the 1984 Ace Special paperback original from later Ace reprintings whose number lines no longer reach 1.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Wild Shore a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition is the Ace Science Fiction Specials paperback original (1984), Robinson's first novel and the first title in the revived Ace Specials line edited by Terry Carr. Identified by the first-printing copyright statement and number line complete to 1, in pictorial wrappers; there was no prior hardcover. Won the 1985 Locus Award for Best First Novel.
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 is the Ace Special paperback original (1984). A Tor hardcover appeared later (1990); the paperback original has priority. Signed copies of the Ace PBO are the collectible first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Not a book club title in its first form. Distinguish the 1984 Ace Special paperback original from later Ace reprintings whose number lines no longer reach 1.
I have a first edition of The Wild Shore — 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.