Identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a first edition, first printing copy of Amy Tan's sweeping historical novel, 'The Valley of Amazement'. The copyright page features the full number line ending in '1', confirming its status as a highly collectible first printing of the author's deeply researched work.
Story
Amy Tan is a celebrated American author known for her deeply researched historical fiction and exploration of mother-daughter relationships. 'The Valley of Amazement' was published in 2013 by HarperCollins. First printings are identified by a full number line ending in '1' on the copyright page. The secondary market for modern first editions by major authors like Amy Tan is saturated due to large initial print runs. While her work is highly regarded, supply outstrips demand for unsigned copies.
Maker / Origin
Unattributed
Condition & Value
No photos were provided, so the valuation assumes standard secondhand condition (Very Good or better) with an intact, unclipped dust jacket. For modern first editions, any tears to the dust jacket, bumped corners, or remainder marks significantly reduce collectibility.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
The secondary market for modern first editions by major authors like Amy Tan is saturated due to large initial print runs. While her work is highly regarded, supply outstrips demand for unsigned copies. Collectors primarily seek out signed copies or pristine, unread examples, which move steadily in the $25-$50 range. Unsigned copies typically trade as standard used fiction.
▲ Confirmed first edition, first printing status appeals to completist collectors.
▲ Amy Tan's established reputation ensures steady, albeit low-priced, baseline demand.
▼ Lack of an author signature limits the ceiling; signed copies command $25-$55.
▼ Massive initial print run means unsigned copies are common and easily acquired.
▼ Unverified physical condition — a missing or damaged dust jacket would drop value to $3-$5.
Best Venue
For an unsigned copy, consider listing on broad secondhand marketplaces like eBay or Amazon at $10-$15. If a quick sale is desired, pricing at $5-$8 will move the book as a reading copy. Before listing, double-check the title page for a signature, as that would immediately elevate the value.
Upside Potential
If upon inspection the book is actually flat-signed by Amy Tan on the title page or features a publisher's signed bookplate, the value range shifts to $25-$55, matching the provided comparables.
Also found — market-range context
Surfaced during research but not used to anchor the valuation — wrong form, species, era, or no published price. Shown so the market range around this item is visible.