The points of issue
The true first edition of Tularosa signed first by Michael McGarrity is identified by: Norton 1996, Kevin Kerney series begins.
W.W. Norton’s first-printing convention: Stated "First Edition" plus a number line containing 1. Full points-of-issue methodology →
Commonly confused with
Book-club editions and later printings reprint the text but are not the first edition and are far less collectible. Like HarperCollins, Norton sometimes leaves the first-edition statement on later printings — the number line is the tiebreaker. Use the points above to be certain — see book-club edition vs. first edition.
Where it sits
Tularosa signed first is a Tier 4 (entry-level to mid three-figure) title in the New Mexico Book Value Index. McGarrity's 1996 first began the Kevin Kerney series.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Tularosa signed first a first edition?
Look for these first-printing points: Norton 1996, Kevin Kerney series begins For W.W. Norton, Stated "First Edition" plus a number line containing 1. Later printings and book-club editions lack them.
How do I tell a first printing from a later one?
Check the copyright page for the publisher's first-printing convention: Stated "First Edition" plus a number line containing 1, and confirm the named point of issue above. A number line, stated edition, or dated first printing is the key.
Is a book-club edition the same as a first edition?
No. Book-club editions (BCE) reprint the text but are not the true first edition and are far less collectible — Like HarperCollins, Norton sometimes leaves the first-edition statement on later printings — the number line is the tiebreaker.. Check the points of issue above to be sure.
I have a first edition of Tularosa signed first — what should I do with it?
If you're clearing books, New Mexico Literacy Project offers free pickup in Albuquerque in any condition and makes sure collectible copies aren't lost. If you'd rather sell, see the Michael McGarrity collecting guide. Either way, nothing valuable ends up in a landfill.