Identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a true first UK edition, first printing of Margaret Atwood's acclaimed novel 'The Robber Bride', published in 1993. It features the distinctive, haunting cover art issued by Bloomsbury and retains the full number line indicating a true first impression.
Story
Margaret Atwood is a Booker Prize-winning Canadian author whose works are cornerstones of modern feminist and speculative fiction. Bloomsbury Publishing released this UK first edition in 1993, featuring distinctive cover art that differs from the North American releases. First printings are identified by the presence of a full number line on the copyright page. The market for 1990s contemporary first editions is polarized. While Margaret Atwood is a highly collected author, 'The Robber Bride' had a substantial initial print run.
Maker / Origin
Unattributed
Condition & Value
For modern first editions, value is entirely dependent on the presence and condition of the original dust jacket, which must be free of price-clipping, tears, or fading. The boards must be sharp, and the text block free of foxing, remainder marks, or previous owner inscriptions to achieve the higher end of the estimate.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
The market for 1990s contemporary first editions is polarized. While Margaret Atwood is a highly collected author, 'The Robber Bride' had a substantial initial print run. Unsigned copies in Very Good to Fine condition trade frequently on platforms like eBay and AbeBooks as accessible entry points for collectors, but prices are heavily capped by the ready availability of signed copies in the $50-$100 range.
▲ Confirmed first UK edition, first printing by a major, highly collected author
▲ Distinctive Bloomsbury cover art appeals to Atwood completists
▲ Presence of the full number line confirms first impression status
▼ Lack of author signature caps the value significantly, as signed copies are available for ~$50
▼ Unverified dust jacket condition — price clipping, edge wear, or fading would drop the value to the $15 reading-copy tier
▼ Unverified text block condition — remainder marks or foxing severely impact modern first edition collectibility
Best Venue
List on a broad secondary marketplace like eBay or a specialized book platform like AbeBooks. Price at $40-$45 for a retail listing with offers accepted, or $20-$25 for a faster sale. Ensure clear photographs of the copyright page (showing the number line) and the dust jacket flaps are included.
Upside Potential
If the book is in pristine, unread 'Fine/Fine' condition, it could push toward the $50-$60 retail mark to a condition-conscious collector. If a previously unnoticed author signature or inscription is found, the value immediately shifts to the $50-$100 tier.