How to identify a first printing
- First printing shows a complete number line counting down to 1 (e.g., 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1) with no later-printing notice
- Often accompanied by a printed "FIRST EDITION" statement on the copyright page, following standard HarperCollins/William Morrow practice
Notable points & cautions
- Literary fiction and nonfiction imprint announced in October 2015 under William Morrow at HarperCollins, with its first titles appearing in spring 2016 (e.g., Sarah Perry's The Essex Serpent)
- Founding editorial director was Geoff Shandler; the imprint later passed to new leadership and has effectively been wound down, so it is primarily relevant to mid-2010s through early-2020s titles
- Identification follows HarperCollins/Morrow conventions rather than any house-specific rule
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Custom House. Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Custom House book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. First printing shows a complete number line counting down to 1 (e.g., 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1) with no later-printing notice Often accompanied by a printed "FIRST EDITION" statement on the copyright page, following standard HarperCollins/William Morrow practice
Does Custom House use a number line?
Often accompanied by a printed "FIRST EDITION" statement on the copyright page, following standard HarperCollins/William Morrow practice
Is a book-club edition a Custom House first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Literary fiction and nonfiction imprint announced in October 2015 under William Morrow at HarperCollins, with its first titles appearing in spring 2016 (e.g., Sarah Perry's The Essex Serpent)
What era does this cover?
This covers Custom House (2016–c.2023). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.