The points of issue
Slim BFI Film Classics monograph of roughly 69 pages, issued only in illustrated wrappers; first printing. Contains Rushdie's essay on the 1939 MGM film plus his short story 'At the Auction of the Ruby Slippers.' ISBN 0851703003.
Is this the true first?
The UK BFI edition (1992) is the true first; the title was issued in wrappers, with no simultaneous hardcover.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club edition. The series was later reprinted; the 1992 BFI wrappered printing is the first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Wizard of Oz (BFI Film Classics) a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Slim BFI Film Classics monograph of roughly 69 pages, issued only in illustrated wrappers; first printing. Contains Rushdie's essay on the 1939 MGM film plus his short story 'At the Auction of the Ruby Slippers.' ISBN 0851703003.
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 UK BFI edition (1992) is the true first; the title was issued in wrappers, with no simultaneous hardcover.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club edition. The series was later reprinted; the 1992 BFI wrappered printing is the first.
I have a first edition of The Wizard of Oz (BFI Film Classics) — 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.