The points of issue
First UK edition, Faber and Faber, London, 2003. 'First published in 2003' on the verso of the title page with a full number line ending in 1 on the true first printing. Original boards in dust jacket priced £12.99 on the front flap. Author's debut novel; won the 2003 Booker Prize.
Is this the true first?
The UK Faber and Faber edition is the true first; the US edition (Canongate US) followed in 2003.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
US edition is later and US-priced (jacket price about the printed price). No prominent book-club edition affects the true first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Vernon God Little a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First UK edition, Faber and Faber, London, 2003. 'First published in 2003' on the verso of the title page with a full number line ending in 1 on the true first printing. Original boards in dust jacket priced £12.99 on the front flap. Author's debut novel; won the 2003 Booker Prize.
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 UK Faber and Faber edition is the true first; the US edition (Canongate US) followed in 2003.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
US edition is later and US-priced (jacket price about the printed price). No prominent book-club edition affects the true first.
I have a first edition of Vernon God Little — 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.