How to identify a first printing
- 2003-present: First printings are identified by a complete descending number line '10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1' on the copyright page, the lowest digit indicating the printing; many translations also carry 'First Archipelago Books Edition' or 'First Edition' wording. The house publishes predominantly paperback originals with the distinctive square French-flap format, so the first state is that trade paperback.
- Elsewhere Editions (launched 2017): the children's-in-translation imprint follows the same standard number-line practice.
Notable points & cautions
- Founded 2003 by Jill Schoolman; a nonprofit devoted to literature in translation.
- Distinctive square, French-flapped paperback format.
- Because most titles are first English translations, the Archipelago edition is typically the first English-language printing of the text — a key bibliographic point.
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Archipelago Books, Elsewhere Editions (children's). Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Archipelago Books book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. 2003-present: First printings are identified by a complete descending number line '10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1' on the copyright page, the lowest digit indicating the printing; many translations also carry 'First Archipelago Books Edition' or 'First Edition' wording. The house publishes predominantly paperback originals with the distinctive square French-flap format, so the first state is that trade paperback. Elsewhere Editions (launched 2017): the children's-in-translation imprint follows the same standard number-line practice.
Does Archipelago Books use a number line?
Elsewhere Editions (launched 2017): the children's-in-translation imprint follows the same standard number-line practice.
Is a book-club edition a Archipelago Books first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Founded 2003 by Jill Schoolman; a nonprofit devoted to literature in translation.
What era does this cover?
This covers Archipelago Books (2003-present). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.