How to identify a first printing
- Number line on the copyright page where present; lowest number = the printing.
- Commonly states 'First edition' or 'First paperback edition' with the year.
- Most titles are single-printing, so true firsts often show a full line or no line at all; rely on the stated edition plus the absence of any reprint notice.
Notable points & cautions
- Nonprofit literary press founded 1999 by Jeffrey Levine, originally in Dorset, Vermont; first five books appeared in 2001, and the press later moved to North Adams, Massachusetts.
- Prize-series labels (Dorset Prize, Berkshire Prize, Snowbound Series Chapbook Award) date or categorize the title only; they do not indicate the printing.
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Dorset Prize, Berkshire Prize, Snowbound Series Chapbook Award. Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Tupelo Press book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. Number line on the copyright page where present; lowest number = the printing. Commonly states 'First edition' or 'First paperback edition' with the year.
Does Tupelo Press use a number line?
Commonly states 'First edition' or 'First paperback edition' with the year.
Is a book-club edition a Tupelo Press first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Nonprofit literary press founded 1999 by Jeffrey Levine, originally in Dorset, Vermont; first five books appeared in 2001, and the press later moved to North Adams, Massachusetts.
What era does this cover?
This covers Tupelo Press (1999-present (first titles 2001)). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.