The points of issue
Bantam trade hardcover, published December 2010. First printing has a complete number line ending in 1 on the copyright page; a large print trade paperback marked First Large Print Edition appeared simultaneously and should not be confused with the trade hardcover.
Is this the true first?
The Bantam US trade hardcover is the true first; UK editions and the large print and book club versions do not precede it.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book club editions (standard and large print) were released the same month; they lack the copyright-page number line and carry no printed price on the jacket.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of What the Night Knows a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Bantam trade hardcover, published December 2010. First printing has a complete number line ending in 1 on the copyright page; a large print trade paperback marked First Large Print Edition appeared simultaneously and should not be confused with the trade hardcover.
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 Bantam US trade hardcover is the true first; UK editions and the large print and book club versions do not precede it.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book club editions (standard and large print) were released the same month; they lack the copyright-page number line and carry no printed price on the jacket.
I have a first edition of What the Night Knows — 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.