The points of issue
Story collection with an introduction by Paul J. McAuley. Night Shade US hardcover, issued as a trade hardcover and a signed/numbered limited edition of 150 copies; first printing stated on the copyright page.
Is this the true first?
US Night Shade hardcover (2006) is the true first; the later UK Gollancz edition (2009) was expanded with additional stories.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
None notable.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Zima Blue and Other Stories a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Story collection with an introduction by Paul J. McAuley. Night Shade US hardcover, issued as a trade hardcover and a signed/numbered limited edition of 150 copies; first printing stated on the copyright page.
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 Night Shade hardcover (2006) is the true first; the later UK Gollancz edition (2009) was expanded with additional stories.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
None notable.
I have a first edition of Zima Blue and Other Stories — 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.