The points of issue
US DAW hardcover, published March 1, 2011. First printings exist in two states: copies with a complete number line running to 1, and copies with no number line at all — a printing error that occurred only on the first printing, confirmed by the author. A copy with no number line is therefore a first printing, not a later one.
Is this the true first?
US DAW is the true first; the UK Gollancz edition appeared at essentially the same time but the US edition is the collected state. The book went through several printings within its first week, so genuine first printings are a small fraction of early copies.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings carry a number line that does not reach 1. The Subterranean Press signed limited is a separate later edition. Do not assume a missing number line means a later or book-club copy on this title.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Wise Man's Fear (Kingkiller Chronicle 2) a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: US DAW hardcover, published March 1, 2011. First printings exist in two states: copies with a complete number line running to 1, and copies with no number line at all — a printing error that occurred only on the first printing, confirmed by the author. A copy with no number line is therefore a first printing, not a later one.
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 DAW is the true first; the UK Gollancz edition appeared at essentially the same time but the US edition is the collected state. The book went through several printings within its first week, so genuine first printings are a small fraction of early copies.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings carry a number line that does not reach 1. The Subterranean Press signed limited is a separate later edition. Do not assume a missing number line means a later or book-club copy on this title.
I have a first edition of The Wise Man's Fear (Kingkiller Chronicle 2) — 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.