How to identify a first printing
- 1996-present (Profile Books): a first printing is shown by 'First published in Great Britain in <year> by Profile Books Ltd' together with a descending number line ending in 1. Because many titles are bestsellers reprinted heavily, the number line is the decisive tell.
- Serpent's Tail (acquired 2007) keeps its own 'First published by Serpent's Tail' imprint statement and number line, so a Serpent's Tail first is distinct from any Profile reissue.
- Economist Books and Economist co-editions carry The Economist branding but the printing is identified by Profile's number line.
Notable points & cautions
- Publisher of major non-fiction bestsellers including Eats, Shoots and Leaves, with heavy reprinting that makes the number line essential to identifying a first.
- Owns Serpent's Tail (literary and transgressive fiction), acquired 2007, and took on Souvenir Press in 2018; keep these imprints separate for attribution.
- Later added the crime imprint Viper in 2019.
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Profile Books, Serpent's Tail (acquired), Souvenir Press (acquired), Viper, Economist Books. Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Profile Books book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. 1996-present (Profile Books): a first printing is shown by 'First published in Great Britain in <year> by Profile Books Ltd' together with a descending number line ending in 1. Because many titles are bestsellers reprinted heavily, the number line is the decisive tell. Serpent's Tail (acquired 2007) keeps its own 'First published by Serpent's Tail' imprint statement and number line, so a Serpent's Tail first is distinct from any Profile reissue.
Does Profile Books use a number line?
Serpent's Tail (acquired 2007) keeps its own 'First published by Serpent's Tail' imprint statement and number line, so a Serpent's Tail first is distinct from any Profile reissue.
Is a book-club edition a Profile Books first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Publisher of major non-fiction bestsellers including Eats, Shoots and Leaves, with heavy reprinting that makes the number line essential to identifying a first.
What era does this cover?
This covers Profile Books (1996-present). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.