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 embrace particular cowl designs, writer imprints, binding types, and textual variations current solely within the earliest print runs. For instance, a selected printing may characteristic an early writer’s mark or comprise illustrations absent from later editions.
Its significance stems from its historic worth and collectibility. These early printings symbolize a tangible connection to the period through 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 value, remodeling this stuff into beneficial artifacts for literary fanatics and traders. Additionally they symbolize the novel in its authentic type, free from later enhancing or alterations.
