The points of issue
Card's first hardcover story collection (the paperback-original collection 'Capitol' preceded it in 1979). Dial Press hardcover with 'First printing' stated on the copyright page; priced jacket. Includes the novelette 'Ender's Game'.
Is this the true first?
US Dial Press hardcover (1981) is the true first; a UK Macdonald edition followed in 1983.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
A book-club issue, if encountered, lacks the jacket price and stated first printing.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Unaccompanied Sonata and Other Stories a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Card's first hardcover story collection (the paperback-original collection 'Capitol' preceded it in 1979). Dial Press hardcover with 'First printing' stated on the copyright page; priced jacket. Includes the novelette 'Ender's Game'.
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 Dial Press hardcover (1981) is the true first; a UK Macdonald edition followed in 1983.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
A book-club issue, if encountered, lacks the jacket price and stated first printing.
I have a first edition of Unaccompanied Sonata and Other Stories — 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.