The points of issue
First edition, first printing by The Atlantic Monthly Press, New York, 1990, identified by the First Edition / First Printing statement on the copyright page; the printed price is present on the jacket flap.
Is this the true first?
US Atlantic Monthly Press hardcover is the true first; the UK Collins Harvill edition (1990) followed and was issued as a paperback original, so it does not compete with the US hardcover first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No significant book-club edition; later printings note the later printing on the copyright page.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Wildlife a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition, first printing by The Atlantic Monthly Press, New York, 1990, identified by the First Edition / First Printing statement on the copyright page; the printed price is present on the jacket 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. US Atlantic Monthly Press hardcover is the true first; the UK Collins Harvill edition (1990) followed and was issued as a paperback original, so it does not compete with the US hardcover first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No significant book-club edition; later printings note the later printing on the copyright page.
I have a first edition of Wildlife — 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.