The points of issue
First Edition stated on the copyright page together with the Random House number line beginning with 2 (reading 2 4 6 8 9 7 5 3 1); dust jacket carries the printed price. Removal of the First Edition statement indicates a later printing.
Is this the true first?
The US Random House hardcover of 1985 is the true first; it won the 1986 fiction award. A separate signed limited edition was also issued.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club editions lack the first-edition statement, are smaller, have a blind-stamped rear board, and carry an unpriced jacket.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of World's Fair a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First Edition stated on the copyright page together with the Random House number line beginning with 2 (reading 2 4 6 8 9 7 5 3 1); dust jacket carries the printed price. Removal of the First Edition statement indicates a later printing.
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 Random House hardcover of 1985 is the true first; it won the 1986 fiction award. A separate signed limited edition was also issued.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club editions lack the first-edition statement, are smaller, have a blind-stamped rear board, and carry an unpriced jacket.
I have a first edition of World's Fair — 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.