The points of issue
Satirical novel in original blue cloth with a paper title label on the spine. UK Chatto & Windus 1925 precedes the US George H. Doran edition of 1925. A signed limited issue of 250 numbered copies was also produced alongside the ordinary trade first.
Is this the true first?
UK Chatto & Windus 1925 is the true first; US George H. Doran 1925 follows.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club issue. A signed limited issue of 250 numbered copies exists in addition to the trade first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Those Barren Leaves a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Satirical novel in original blue cloth with a paper title label on the spine. UK Chatto & Windus 1925 precedes the US George H. Doran edition of 1925. A signed limited issue of 250 numbered copies was also produced alongside the ordinary trade first.
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 Chatto & Windus 1925 is the true first; US George H. Doran 1925 follows.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club issue. A signed limited issue of 250 numbered copies exists in addition to the trade first.
I have a first edition of Those Barren Leaves — 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.