The points of issue
First edition 1994, HarperCollins (New York). The first printing states 'First Edition' with a full number line ending in 1; copyright 1994. Laminated pictorial boards with matching jacket; first-state jacket without the Newbery Medal seal.
Is this the true first?
US true first. Newbery Medal 1995. Although Creech was living in England at the time, the book was first published by US HarperCollins, which is the true first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Absence of the 'First Edition' statement or a number line not ending in 1 indicates a later printing; book-club editions typically lack a jacket price; post-award jacket states add the seal.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Walk Two Moons a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition 1994, HarperCollins (New York). The first printing states 'First Edition' with a full number line ending in 1; copyright 1994. Laminated pictorial boards with matching jacket; first-state jacket without the Newbery Medal seal.
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 true first. Newbery Medal 1995. Although Creech was living in England at the time, the book was first published by US HarperCollins, which is the true first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Absence of the 'First Edition' statement or a number line not ending in 1 indicates a later printing; book-club editions typically lack a jacket price; post-award jacket states add the seal.
I have a first edition of Walk Two Moons — 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.