The points of issue
Donald M. Grant editions published February 21, 2012 precede the trade: a signed and numbered limited of 800 copies in a traycase, and an Artist Edition of 5,000 copies signed by illustrator Jae Lee in a slipcase, both illustrated by Jae Lee. The Scribner trade first followed April 24, 2012 with a full number line. Dark Tower 4.5.
Is this the true first?
The Grant editions are the true first; the Scribner trade is the first trade edition.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
N/A.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Wind Through the Keyhole a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Donald M. Grant editions published February 21, 2012 precede the trade: a signed and numbered limited of 800 copies in a traycase, and an Artist Edition of 5,000 copies signed by illustrator Jae Lee in a slipcase, both illustrated by Jae Lee. The Scribner trade first followed April 24, 2012 with a full number line. Dark Tower 4.5.
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 Grant editions are the true first; the Scribner trade is the first trade edition.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
N/A.
I have a first edition of The Wind Through the Keyhole — 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.