The points of issue
First printing of the novel. Harper & Brothers, New York, 1944, preceding the UK edition. Harper first printings carry the issue code on the copyright page identifying the first impression.
Is this the true first?
US Harper & Brothers (1944) is the true first; the UK Chatto & Windus edition followed in 1945.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club issue at first publication.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Time Must Have a Stop a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing of the novel. Harper & Brothers, New York, 1944, preceding the UK edition. Harper first printings carry the issue code on the copyright page identifying the first impression.
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 Harper & Brothers (1944) is the true first; the UK Chatto & Windus edition followed in 1945.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club issue at first publication.
I have a first edition of Time Must Have a Stop — 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.