The points of issue
First English edition, Tilted Axis Press, London, 26 August 2021 (translation of the Hindi 'Ret Samadhi'). Paperback original; the verso states 'First published in 2021 by Tilted Axis Press.' ISBN 9781911284611. Winner of the 2022 International Booker Prize — the first work translated from Hindi, and the first in any Indian language, to win.
Is this the true first?
The Hindi 'Ret Samadhi' (Rajkamal Prakashan, 2018) is the true first of the work. The Tilted Axis 2021 paperback is the true first in English (Rockwell translation) and the prize-winning edition. US and Indian editions followed after the prize.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Post-prize reprints and other-territory editions are distinguished by imprint and by stated additional printings on the verso. No known book-club edition.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Tomb of Sand a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First English edition, Tilted Axis Press, London, 26 August 2021 (translation of the Hindi 'Ret Samadhi'). Paperback original; the verso states 'First published in 2021 by Tilted Axis Press.' ISBN 9781911284611. Winner of the 2022 International Booker Prize — the first work translated from Hindi, and the first in any Indian language, to win.
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. The Hindi 'Ret Samadhi' (Rajkamal Prakashan, 2018) is the true first of the work. The Tilted Axis 2021 paperback is the true first in English (Rockwell translation) and the prize-winning edition. US and Indian editions followed after the prize.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Post-prize reprints and other-territory editions are distinguished by imprint and by stated additional printings on the verso. No known book-club edition.
I have a first edition of Tomb of Sand — 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.