The points of issue
Copyright page states 'First Edition' with no later-printing statement. Reddish-orange paper-covered boards with gilt spine lettering; 315 pp; ISBN 0-307-59273-1. First-issue jacket carries the printed price on the front flap and the date code '3/2012' on the rear flap.
Is this the true first?
The US Knopf edition is the true first, preceding the UK (Atlantic Books) edition. The book was heavily promoted as an Oprah's Book Club 2.0 selection; true firsts predate the Oprah-sticker printings. Published March 20, 2012.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings drop the 'First Edition' statement and change the rear-flap date code; Oprah's Book Club branding was added to the jacket on later issues. There is no traditional book-club hardcover; the tells are the 'First Edition' line, the '3/2012' rear-flap code, and the priced first-issue jacket.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Copyright page states 'First Edition' with no later-printing statement. Reddish-orange paper-covered boards with gilt spine lettering; 315 pp; ISBN 0-307-59273-1. First-issue jacket carries the printed price on the front flap and the date code '3/2012' on the rear flap.
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 US Knopf edition is the true first, preceding the UK (Atlantic Books) edition. The book was heavily promoted as an Oprah's Book Club 2.0 selection; true firsts predate the Oprah-sticker printings. Published March 20, 2012.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings drop the 'First Edition' statement and change the rear-flap date code; Oprah's Book Club branding was added to the jacket on later issues. There is no traditional book-club hardcover; the tells are the 'First Edition' line, the '3/2012' rear-flap code, and the priced first-issue jacket.
I have a first edition of Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail — 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.