The points of issue
Little, Brown and Company (Megan Tingley Books imprint), 2005. The first printing states 'First Edition' and shows a full number line ending in 1 ('10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1') on the copyright page; first-issue jacket with the printed price and the red-apple cover. The author's debut novel.
Is this the true first?
The US Little, Brown first is the true first. Because the title reprinted heavily, true first printings (full number line ending in 1, the printed-price jacket) are the genuinely scarce state.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The main trap is later printings with shortened number lines not ending in 1 and higher jacket prices. Verify the complete number line ending in 1 and the first-issue printed-price red-apple jacket.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Twilight a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Little, Brown and Company (Megan Tingley Books imprint), 2005. The first printing states 'First Edition' and shows a full number line ending in 1 ('10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1') on the copyright page; first-issue jacket with the printed price and the red-apple cover. The author's debut novel.
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 US Little, Brown first is the true first. Because the title reprinted heavily, true first printings (full number line ending in 1, the printed-price jacket) are the genuinely scarce state.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The main trap is later printings with shortened number lines not ending in 1 and higher jacket prices. Verify the complete number line ending in 1 and the first-issue printed-price red-apple jacket.
I have a first edition of Twilight — 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.