The points of issue
First edition, Geoffrey Bles, 1962; collection of twelve papers and addresses; original cloth, dust jacket designed by Michael Harvey.
Is this the true first?
UK Bles true first, published February 1962; the last of Lewis's books published in his lifetime.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Contents overlap later collections such as those gathering his addresses; this 1962 volume is the first appearance of the gathering.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of They Asked for a Paper: Papers and Addresses a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition, Geoffrey Bles, 1962; collection of twelve papers and addresses; original cloth, dust jacket designed by Michael Harvey.
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. UK Bles true first, published February 1962; the last of Lewis's books published in his lifetime.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Contents overlap later collections such as those gathering his addresses; this 1962 volume is the first appearance of the gathering.
I have a first edition of They Asked for a Paper: Papers and Addresses — 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.