The points of issue
First edition, first printing. A collection of Burgess's literary essays and reviews. The UK Jonathan Cape edition of 1968 precedes the US W. W. Norton edition.
Is this the true first?
UK Jonathan Cape 1968 is the true first; the US Norton edition followed (dated 1969, though some sources cite 1968).
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club issue noted.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Urgent Copy a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition, first printing. A collection of Burgess's literary essays and reviews. The UK Jonathan Cape edition of 1968 precedes the US W. W. Norton edition.
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. UK Jonathan Cape 1968 is the true first; the US Norton edition followed (dated 1969, though some sources cite 1968).
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club issue noted.
I have a first edition of Urgent Copy — 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.