The points of issue
First printing has the copyright page stating A Bantam Book / June 2005 with the full number line BVG 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1.
Is this the true first?
Bantam US trade hardcover (May 2005) is the true first; the Charnel House signed limited editions followed later in 2005-2006.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book club edition lacks the number line and jacket price and is slightly smaller than the trade edition.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Velocity a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing has the copyright page stating A Bantam Book / June 2005 with the full number line BVG 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1.
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. Bantam US trade hardcover (May 2005) is the true first; the Charnel House signed limited editions followed later in 2005-2006.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book club edition lacks the number line and jacket price and is slightly smaller than the trade edition.
I have a first edition of Velocity — 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.