The points of issue
First printing (Bruccoli A5.1.a) has the Scribner seal and reads 'Published April, 1920' on the copyright page, with no later reprinting statements. Bound in dark green cloth lettered in gilt on the spine with blind-stamped lettering on the front board. First-issue dust jacket carries no printing statement and shows only the publisher's description on the front flap.
Is this the true first?
Fitzgerald's first book; true US first edition. The UK Collins edition (1921) is a separate first thus, not a precedence concern.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club edition. Later printings add reprinting statements (for example 'Reprinted' lines and later month notices) below the publication line.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of This Side of Paradise a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing (Bruccoli A5.1.a) has the Scribner seal and reads 'Published April, 1920' on the copyright page, with no later reprinting statements. Bound in dark green cloth lettered in gilt on the spine with blind-stamped lettering on the front board. First-issue dust jacket carries no printing statement and shows only the publisher's description on the front flap.
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. Fitzgerald's first book; true US first edition. The UK Collins edition (1921) is a separate first thus, not a precedence concern.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club edition. Later printings add reprinting statements (for example 'Reprinted' lines and later month notices) below the publication line.
I have a first edition of This Side of Paradise — 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.