The points of issue
Cloth-backed boards; 'First Edition' stated on the copyright page (Pantheon, a division of Random House — first-printing number lines in this house may end in 2 rather than 1); first-state dust jacket priced.
Is this the true first?
US Pantheon Books (New York), a division of Random House, true first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club issue lacks the 'First Edition' statement and the jacket price.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Working: People Talk About What They Do All Day... a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Cloth-backed boards; 'First Edition' stated on the copyright page (Pantheon, a division of Random House — first-printing number lines in this house may end in 2 rather than 1); first-state dust jacket priced.
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 Pantheon Books (New York), a division of Random House, true first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club issue lacks the 'First Edition' statement and the jacket price.
I have a first edition of Working: People Talk About What They Do All Day... — 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.