How to identify a first printing
- 2002 to around 2020: design-forward small-press graphic-novel and art-book first printings are identified by the indicia or colophon printing statement, with a first printing stating an original date or 'First printing' and the uncommon reprints stating a later printing. Some titles carry a number line ending in 1.
- Many AdHouse titles (the Project: anthology series, Paul Pope's PulpHope art book, Scott Morse, and Afrodisiac by Jim Rugg and Brian Maruca) had single small print runs, so most surviving copies are first printings; still, a few popular titles were reprinted, so verify the colophon.
- Limited and signed editions and convention exclusives state their limitation separately from the printing line.
Notable points & cautions
- Run by designer Chris Pitzer; known for high production values and curated anthologies such as the 'Project:' series.
- Small print runs mean first-printing scarcity is driven mainly by run size rather than by multiple printings.
- Largely wound down publishing around 2020, with the backlist out of print and collectible; the imprint has still appeared at conventions afterward.
- Afrodisiac (2010, Eisner-nominated) and Paul Pope's PulpHope are notable design-collectible titles.
Imprints
First editions also appear under: AdHouse Books. Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my AdHouse Books book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. 2002 to around 2020: design-forward small-press graphic-novel and art-book first printings are identified by the indicia or colophon printing statement, with a first printing stating an original date or 'First printing' and the uncommon reprints stating a later printing. Some titles carry a number line ending in 1. Many AdHouse titles (the Project: anthology series, Paul Pope's PulpHope art book, Scott Morse, and Afrodisiac by Jim Rugg and Brian Maruca) had single small print runs, so most surviving copies are first printings; still, a few popular titles were reprinted, so verify the colophon.
Does AdHouse Books use a number line?
Many AdHouse titles (the Project: anthology series, Paul Pope's PulpHope art book, Scott Morse, and Afrodisiac by Jim Rugg and Brian Maruca) had single small print runs, so most surviving copies are first printings; still, a few popular titles were reprinted, so verify the colophon.
Is a book-club edition a AdHouse Books first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Run by designer Chris Pitzer; known for high production values and curated anthologies such as the 'Project:' series.
What era does this cover?
This covers AdHouse Books (2002-around 2020). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.