How to identify a first printing
- Number line on the copyright page where present; the lowest digit indicates the printing.
- Some titles state 'First Edition'; many small-run firsts carry no number line.
- The absence of a later-printing statement on the copyright leaf supports a first printing.
Notable points & cautions
- Founded in the fall of 2005 by Zachary Schomburg and Mathias Svalina, who met at the University of Nebraska; the press grew out of the online Octopus Magazine and began with hand-made chapbooks before its first full-length book, Julie Doxsee's 'Undersleep'.
- Design-forward small editions; reprints are uncommon, so number lines are frequently absent on genuine firsts. Schomburg is based in Portland and Svalina in Denver.
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Octopus Magazine (associated). Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Octopus Books book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. Number line on the copyright page where present; the lowest digit indicates the printing. Some titles state 'First Edition'; many small-run firsts carry no number line.
Does Octopus Books use a number line?
Some titles state 'First Edition'; many small-run firsts carry no number line.
Is a book-club edition a Octopus Books first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Founded in the fall of 2005 by Zachary Schomburg and Mathias Svalina, who met at the University of Nebraska; the press grew out of the online Octopus Magazine and began with hand-made chapbooks before its first full-length book, Julie Doxsee's 'Undersleep'.
What era does this cover?
This covers Octopus Books (2005–present). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.