The points of issue
Ace paperback original, F-393, July 1966, Gray Morrow cover. Zelazny's first novel. Expands the abridged magazine serial '...And Call Me Conrad' (F&SF, October and November 1965), restoring most of the cut text. Joint 1966 Hugo winner (with Dune).
Is this the true first?
US Ace paperback original is the true first book edition; the shorter serial precedes it in periodical form only.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book club edition. The first hardcover is the later Rapp & Whiting UK edition.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of This Immortal a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Ace paperback original, F-393, July 1966, Gray Morrow cover. Zelazny's first novel. Expands the abridged magazine serial '...And Call Me Conrad' (F&SF, October and November 1965), restoring most of the cut text. Joint 1966 Hugo winner (with Dune).
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 Ace paperback original is the true first book edition; the shorter serial precedes it in periodical form only.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book club edition. The first hardcover is the later Rapp & Whiting UK edition.
I have a first edition of This Immortal — 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.