The points of issue
Viking, New York, 1982 (ISBN 0-670-77855-9). Naylor's first book; winner of the National Book Award for first novel. Quarter cloth over paper-covered boards with spine lettering. First printing: copyright page shows 1982 with no additional-printing statement. Original unclipped dust jacket.
Is this the true first?
US Viking 1982 is the true first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Watch for issues showing a later-printing statement, a price-clipped flap, or book-club markings such as a blind-stamp to the rear board.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Women of Brewster Place a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Viking, New York, 1982 (ISBN 0-670-77855-9). Naylor's first book; winner of the National Book Award for first novel. Quarter cloth over paper-covered boards with spine lettering. First printing: copyright page shows 1982 with no additional-printing statement. Original unclipped dust jacket.
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 Viking 1982 is the true first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Watch for issues showing a later-printing statement, a price-clipped flap, or book-club markings such as a blind-stamp to the rear board.
I have a first edition of The Women of Brewster Place — 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.