The points of issue
States 'First published 1986' by Chatto & Windus on the copyright page. Original green cloth, spine lettered in gilt, in a priced dust jacket. Mantel's second novel, a sequel to her debut Every Day Is Mother's Day.
Is this the true first?
UK Chatto & Windus (1986) is the true first. The US Holt edition came much later (2000). The UK strongly precedes.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No notable book-club edition.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Vacant Possession a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: States 'First published 1986' by Chatto & Windus on the copyright page. Original green cloth, spine lettered in gilt, in a priced dust jacket. Mantel's second novel, a sequel to her debut Every Day Is Mother's Day.
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 Chatto & Windus (1986) is the true first. The US Holt edition came much later (2000). The UK strongly precedes.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No notable book-club edition.
I have a first edition of Vacant Possession — 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.