How to identify a first printing
- First printing: a descending number line ending in 1 on the copyright page; many titles state 'First edition [year]' or 'This [hardback/paperback] edition first published in [year]'
- The lowest digit present in the number line indicates the printing
Notable points & cautions
- Founded in 1992 in England by Nancy Traversy and Tessa Strickland (initially London and the Bath area); the US office moved to Cambridge, Massachusetts around 2000 and is now in Concord, Massachusetts
- Illustrated multicultural and folktale picture books, frequently issued with accompanying CD or sing-along editions
- Multiple format issues (hardback, paperback, with-CD) each carry their own 'first published' line — match the format in hand to its own first printing
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Barefoot Books. Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Barefoot Books book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. First printing: a descending number line ending in 1 on the copyright page; many titles state 'First edition [year]' or 'This [hardback/paperback] edition first published in [year]' The lowest digit present in the number line indicates the printing
Does Barefoot Books use a number line?
The lowest digit present in the number line indicates the printing
Is a book-club edition a Barefoot Books first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Founded in 1992 in England by Nancy Traversy and Tessa Strickland (initially London and the Bath area); the US office moved to Cambridge, Massachusetts around 2000 and is now in Concord, Massachusetts
What era does this cover?
This covers Barefoot Books (1992-present). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.