More ways to confirm a first printing
- As a Penguin Publishing Group imprint, do not rely on a printed "First edition" statement — use the number line
Notable points & cautions
- Business imprint within Penguin Publishing Group, part of Penguin Random House; founded by Adrian Zackheim, who joined Penguin in September 2001
- Sentinel is its conservative-politics sister imprint, also founded by Zackheim
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Portfolio, Sentinel (sister political imprint), Thesis, The Optimism Press. Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Portfolio book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. First printing is identified by a complete descending number line on the copyright page ending in 1; the lowest number present indicates the printing As a Penguin Publishing Group imprint, do not rely on a printed "First edition" statement — use the number line
Does Portfolio use a number line?
As a Penguin Publishing Group imprint, do not rely on a printed "First edition" statement — use the number line
Is a book-club edition a Portfolio first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Business imprint within Penguin Publishing Group, part of Penguin Random House; founded by Adrian Zackheim, who joined Penguin in September 2001
What era does this cover?
This covers Portfolio (2001–present). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.
Clearing out a shelf that includes Portfolio 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.