The phrase designates the preliminary printing of Louisa Might Alcott’s celebrated novel, a model possessing distinctive traits differentiating it from subsequent releases. These distinguishing options can embody particular cowl designs, writer imprints, binding kinds, and textual variations current solely within the earliest print runs. For instance, a selected printing may function an early writer’s mark or include illustrations absent from later editions.
Its significance stems from its historic worth and collectibility. These early printings characterize a tangible connection to the period by which the novel was first launched to the general public, offering insights into publishing practices of the time and the preliminary reception of the work. The shortage and demand amongst collectors typically end in appreciable monetary price, remodeling this stuff into priceless artifacts for literary fans and traders. In addition they characterize the novel in its unique type, free from later enhancing or alterations.
