More ways to confirm a first printing
- Number line is the controlling signal when both are present; first printing requires '1'
- Older mid-century titles: stated 'First Edition' / 'First printing' with no number line
Notable points & cautions
- Independent children's-only publisher founded 1935 (one of the oldest US children's specialists)
- Home of many Caldecott/Newbery honorees; Neal Porter Books (a Holiday House imprint) carries prestige picture books
- Generally clean, consistent 'FIRST EDITION'-plus-number-line conventions — fewer carry-over errors than Harper
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Holiday House, Margaret Ferguson Books, Neal Porter Books, Pixel+Ink (sister). Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Holiday House book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. Modern: 'FIRST EDITION' stated on copyright page, typically accompanied by a descending number line ending in 1 Number line is the controlling signal when both are present; first printing requires '1'
Does Holiday House use a number line?
Number line is the controlling signal when both are present; first printing requires '1'
Is a book-club edition a Holiday House first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Independent children's-only publisher founded 1935 (one of the oldest US children's specialists)
What era does this cover?
This covers Holiday House (1935–present). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.
Clearing out a shelf that includes Holiday House books? I take books as a free donation and make sure collectible copies are identified, not discarded: free pickup in the Albuquerque metro (scheduled by route), the 24/7 drop box at 5445 Edith Blvd NE, or donor-paid mail-in from anywhere in the US. Call or text 505-250-3804.