How to identify a first printing
- Western/prairie literary press: modern titles generally state 'first edition' and may carry a number line (lowest digit '1' present indicates a first printing).
- Series titles (Nunatak First Fiction, Prairie Play) follow the parent copyright-page convention; the series designation itself helps date and place the book.
- Older titles: rely on the original copyright year and the absence of later-printing statements.
Notable points & cautions
- Founded 1977 in Edmonton, Alberta, growing out of the NeWest Review (launched 1975); the founding collective included Rudy Wiebe, Douglas Barbour, George Melnyk, and Diane Bessai. A leading Prairie-region literary publisher.
- The Nunatak First Fiction Series spotlights debut novels (described as the longest-running first-fiction series in Canada) and is collectible for author firsts.
- Maintains a notable drama list, including the Prairie Play Series.
Imprints
First editions also appear under: NeWest Press, Nunatak First Fiction Series, Prairie Play Series (drama). Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my NeWest Press book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. Western/prairie literary press: modern titles generally state 'first edition' and may carry a number line (lowest digit '1' present indicates a first printing). Series titles (Nunatak First Fiction, Prairie Play) follow the parent copyright-page convention; the series designation itself helps date and place the book.
Does NeWest Press use a number line?
Series titles (Nunatak First Fiction, Prairie Play) follow the parent copyright-page convention; the series designation itself helps date and place the book.
Is a book-club edition a NeWest Press first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Founded 1977 in Edmonton, Alberta, growing out of the NeWest Review (launched 1975); the founding collective included Rudy Wiebe, Douglas Barbour, George Melnyk, and Diane Bessai. A leading Prairie-region literary publisher.
What era does this cover?
This covers NeWest Press (1977-present). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.