How to identify a first printing
- Generally prints a 'First edition' or 'First printing' statement on the copyright page; later printings note the printing.
- Many titles also carry a number line; '1' present = first printing.
- Fine-press/limited and letterpress titles are identified by colophon (stating limitation number, paper, and press) rather than a trade number line.
Notable points & cautions
- Distinguished Boston literary and fine-printing house (founded 1970) celebrated for typography, letterpress, and well-made trade books — design quality is central to collectibility.
- Acquired the Black Sparrow Press literary list (Bukowski, Bowles and others) and continues reprints as Black Sparrow Books; distinguish original Black Sparrow Press firsts from Godine's Black Sparrow Books reissues. Original Black Sparrow firsts characteristically show a title page printed in two or more colors, with no additional printings listed.
- Limited/letterpress editions: rely on the colophon and stated limitation, not on a printer's key.
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Nonpareil Books, Black Sparrow Books (acquired Black Sparrow Press list), Verba Mundi. Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my David R. Godine, Publisher book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. Generally prints a 'First edition' or 'First printing' statement on the copyright page; later printings note the printing. Many titles also carry a number line; '1' present = first printing.
Does David R. Godine, Publisher use a number line?
Many titles also carry a number line; '1' present = first printing.
Is a book-club edition a David R. Godine, Publisher first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Distinguished Boston literary and fine-printing house (founded 1970) celebrated for typography, letterpress, and well-made trade books — design quality is central to collectibility.
What era does this cover?
This covers David R. Godine, Publisher (1970-present). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.