How to identify a first printing
- Primarily a reviver and reprint publisher: most volumes are new editions of older works and state so, often adding a new introduction — they are not first appearances of the text
- Valancourt's own first printings, such as newly commissioned English translations or first-collected works, are identified by the Valancourt edition statement and year on the copyright page, with a number line where present
- Trade-paperback and print-on-demand heavy, so identification rests on the Valancourt edition statement rather than any hand-press limitation
Notable points & cautions
- Founded 2005 by James Jenkins and Ryan Cagle; specializes in rediscovered Gothic, horror, and LGBT classics from the 18th century through the 1980s
- Most collectible interest is in the WORK rather than the Valancourt printing state, since they reprint rare originals; the chief exceptions are first-ever English translations they commission
- Distinguish a 'first Valancourt edition' from the original — and far older — first edition of the same text
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Valancourt Books book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. Primarily a reviver and reprint publisher: most volumes are new editions of older works and state so, often adding a new introduction — they are not first appearances of the text Valancourt's own first printings, such as newly commissioned English translations or first-collected works, are identified by the Valancourt edition statement and year on the copyright page, with a number line where present
Does Valancourt Books use a number line?
Valancourt's own first printings, such as newly commissioned English translations or first-collected works, are identified by the Valancourt edition statement and year on the copyright page, with a number line where present
Is a book-club edition a Valancourt Books first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Founded 2005 by James Jenkins and Ryan Cagle; specializes in rediscovered Gothic, horror, and LGBT classics from the 18th century through the 1980s
What era does this cover?
This covers Valancourt Books (2005–present). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.