How to identify a first printing
- Modern convention: 'First Edition' on the copyright page, often with a descending number line; lowest digit present indicates the printing.
- First shows no later-printing notice.
- Early cooperative-era titles (1970s) were small-run; verify printing statements individually.
Notable points & cautions
- Founded 1973 as a poets' cooperative in Cambridge, Massachusetts (named for Alice James, sister of Henry and William James); now affiliated with the University of Maine at Farmington.
- Cooperative origin means very small early print runs — early firsts are scarce.
- Standard modern conventions on current list.
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Beatrice Hawley Award titles, Kundiman Poetry Prize titles. Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Alice James Books book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. Modern convention: 'First Edition' on the copyright page, often with a descending number line; lowest digit present indicates the printing. First shows no later-printing notice.
Does Alice James Books use a number line?
First shows no later-printing notice.
Is a book-club edition a Alice James Books first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Founded 1973 as a poets' cooperative in Cambridge, Massachusetts (named for Alice James, sister of Henry and William James); now affiliated with the University of Maine at Farmington.
What era does this cover?
This covers Alice James Books (1973–present). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.