The points of issue
Copyright page reads "First Trade Edition" with the Little, Brown dating code T10/78 (October 1978); copyright notice reads Copyright 1978 by Herman Wouk. A signed limited edition was also issued and should not be confused with the trade first.
Is this the true first?
US Little, Brown trade edition is the true first; the UK edition followed from Collins in 1978.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book club editions are very common, lack the T-code, and are typically lighter with a blind-stamped mark on the rear board.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of War and Remembrance a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Copyright page reads "First Trade Edition" with the Little, Brown dating code T10/78 (October 1978); copyright notice reads Copyright 1978 by Herman Wouk. A signed limited edition was also issued and should not be confused with the trade first.
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 Little, Brown trade edition is the true first; the UK edition followed from Collins in 1978.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book club editions are very common, lack the T-code, and are typically lighter with a blind-stamped mark on the rear board.
I have a first edition of War and Remembrance — 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.