How to identify a first printing
- 1997–present: for the modern English-language first, look on the copyright page for a full number line whose lowest figure is '1' (for example '9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1' or the alternating '1 3 5 7 9 10 8 6 4 2'); the presence of '1' indicates a first printing, following standard UK trade practice.
- The copyright page also carries a 'First published by Pushkin Press in <year>' statement for the English-language first. For a work in translation, the original-language first-publication date is noted separately and does NOT govern the relevant Pushkin first.
- The Pushkin Collection (small flapped-paperback series with patterned endpapers) follows the same number-line convention; the distinctive series design is branding, not a printing or edition indicator.
Notable points & cautions
- Founded in 1997, Pushkin is a specialist in literature in translation and is largely responsible for the revival of Stefan Zweig in English, alongside Antal Szerb and other rediscovered European authors.
- Pushkin Vertigo (crime and noir) and Pushkin Children's Books are sub-imprints that follow the house's number-line practice.
- The collectible 'first' is the first English-language Pushkin edition; the small flapped-paperback design is house styling, not an edition point.
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Pushkin Press, Pushkin Children's Books, Pushkin Vertigo, ONE (Pushkin ONE), Pushkin Collection. Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Pushkin Press book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. 1997–present: for the modern English-language first, look on the copyright page for a full number line whose lowest figure is '1' (for example '9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1' or the alternating '1 3 5 7 9 10 8 6 4 2'); the presence of '1' indicates a first printing, following standard UK trade practice. The copyright page also carries a 'First published by Pushkin Press in <year>' statement for the English-language first. For a work in translation, the original-language first-publication date is noted separately and does NOT govern the relevant Pushkin first.
Does Pushkin Press use a number line?
The copyright page also carries a 'First published by Pushkin Press in <year>' statement for the English-language first. For a work in translation, the original-language first-publication date is noted separately and does NOT govern the relevant Pushkin first.
Is a book-club edition a Pushkin Press first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Founded in 1997, Pushkin is a specialist in literature in translation and is largely responsible for the revival of Stefan Zweig in English, alongside Antal Szerb and other rediscovered European authors.
What era does this cover?
This covers Pushkin Press (1997–present). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.