How to identify a first printing
- 1980s-present (imprint of Inner Traditions): follows the same standard modern-trade practice as the Inner Traditions parent, a descending number line such as '10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1' in which the lowest number indicates the printing (a line ending in 1 marks a first printing), typically alongside a 'First Edition' statement on the copyright page. The Destiny Books imprint name signals the occult, pagan, and divination subject line within the Inner Traditions family rather than a separate dating system.
- General: revised editions are restated with a fresh number line and 'Second Edition' (or similar) wording, so verify both the edition statement and the line.
Notable points & cautions
- An Inner Traditions imprint, not an independent house, focused on New Age and metaphysical titles, divination, tantra and sacred sexuality, and pagan and occult traditions, and it often publishes English translations of French and German works.
- Identification follows the Inner Traditions parent's practice (descending number line plus 'First Edition' statement), which is standard modern-trade convention rather than a documented house-specific point.
- The imprint name is a subject tell, not a separate identification system.
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Destiny Books. Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Destiny Books book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. 1980s-present (imprint of Inner Traditions): follows the same standard modern-trade practice as the Inner Traditions parent, a descending number line such as '10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1' in which the lowest number indicates the printing (a line ending in 1 marks a first printing), typically alongside a 'First Edition' statement on the copyright page. The Destiny Books imprint name signals the occult, pagan, and divination subject line within the Inner Traditions family rather than a separate dating system. General: revised editions are restated with a fresh number line and 'Second Edition' (or similar) wording, so verify both the edition statement and the line.
Does Destiny Books use a number line?
General: revised editions are restated with a fresh number line and 'Second Edition' (or similar) wording, so verify both the edition statement and the line.
Is a book-club edition a Destiny Books first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. An Inner Traditions imprint, not an independent house, focused on New Age and metaphysical titles, divination, tantra and sacred sexuality, and pagan and occult traditions, and it often publishes English translations of French and German works.
What era does this cover?
This covers Destiny Books (1980s-present). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.