The points of issue
First edition 1964, bylined James Ngugi (the pre-renaming author-name point). Heinemann African Writers Series number 7; issued as series wrappers and also in a cloth hardback issue. The first novel in English by an East African to be published by Heinemann.
Is this the true first?
Heinemann London 1964 is the true first edition, bylined James Ngugi, a major identifying point since later printings and editions appear under Ngugi wa Thiong'o. The US Macmillan issue follows.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Any copy bylined Ngugi wa Thiong'o is a later printing or edition, as the author changed his name around 1970. Later African Writers Series reprints and US editions are not the first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Weep Not, Child a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition 1964, bylined James Ngugi (the pre-renaming author-name point). Heinemann African Writers Series number 7; issued as series wrappers and also in a cloth hardback issue. The first novel in English by an East African to be published by Heinemann.
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. Heinemann London 1964 is the true first edition, bylined James Ngugi, a major identifying point since later printings and editions appear under Ngugi wa Thiong'o. The US Macmillan issue follows.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Any copy bylined Ngugi wa Thiong'o is a later printing or edition, as the author changed his name around 1970. Later African Writers Series reprints and US editions are not the first.
I have a first edition of Weep Not, Child — 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.