The points of issue
First edition is a Ballantine mass-market paperback original, not a hardcover; the copyright page states 'First American Edition: February 1994' (copies went on sale in late December 1993). An expanded rewrite of 'Invasion,' a Laser Books paperback original published in 1975 under the pen name Aaron Wolfe.
Is this the true first?
The Ballantine paperback original is the true first of this text; the only hardcover is the UK Headline edition of December 1994, which followed it. The story derives from the earlier 'Invasion' (Laser Books, 1975, as Aaron Wolfe).
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
A book club reprint of the paperback exists; genuine firsts carry the 'First American Edition: February 1994' statement, which later printings and club copies lack.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Winter Moon a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition is a Ballantine mass-market paperback original, not a hardcover; the copyright page states 'First American Edition: February 1994' (copies went on sale in late December 1993). An expanded rewrite of 'Invasion,' a Laser Books paperback original published in 1975 under the pen name Aaron Wolfe.
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 Ballantine paperback original is the true first of this text; the only hardcover is the UK Headline edition of December 1994, which followed it. The story derives from the earlier 'Invasion' (Laser Books, 1975, as Aaron Wolfe).
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
A book club reprint of the paperback exists; genuine firsts carry the 'First American Edition: February 1994' statement, which later printings and club copies lack.
I have a first edition of Winter Moon — 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.