The points of issue
Illustrated large-format companion volume, nicknamed 'The Big White Book' for its predominantly white cover. US Tor hardcover, published November 1997, with color art by Todd Cameron Hamilton. First printing has 'First edition' stated with a full number line to 1.
Is this the true first?
US Tor true first. A revised, redesigned Tor reissue appeared decades later and is easily distinguished.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings and the later reissue differ.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The World of Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time (with Teresa Patterson) a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Illustrated large-format companion volume, nicknamed 'The Big White Book' for its predominantly white cover. US Tor hardcover, published November 1997, with color art by Todd Cameron Hamilton. First printing has 'First edition' stated with a full number line to 1.
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 Tor true first. A revised, redesigned Tor reissue appeared decades later and is easily distinguished.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings and the later reissue differ.
I have a first edition of The World of Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time (with Teresa Patterson) — 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.