Today we finally see the publication of the Deluxe Edition of The Children of Hurin by Houghton Mifflin, the official American Publisher of J.R.R. Tolkien for over 65 Years. The Deluxe Edition has caused a lot of talking on chatboxes and many Tolkien related boards. There was a rumor that the Deluxe Edition 1st printing run of 10.000 copies was sold out and that Houghton Mifflin already started reprinting. Well, I can tell the rumor is true, BUT not completely.
When a spokesman of Houghton Mifflin told "The Houghton Mifflin deluxe edition first printing was 10,000 copies, but is already being reprinted. The number of extra copies is still unclear." he actually wanted to say, we first printed 10.000 copies and then saw early on that the amount of pre-orders was much larger then 10.000 so we started reprinting to be able to fulfill the demand. So no copies where actually sent out to any stores (this was finally done last week and by tomorrow all major bookstores should have the US Deluxe Editions up for sale). There for I can now for sure confirm that there where NO Deluxe Editions with pre-signed bookplates at the NYC Release Event. After my article on The Children of Hurin facts and figures I received many mails to say there where no Deluxe Editions being sold during the NYC Release Event, this was indeed correct and has now also been confirmed by Houghton Mifflin. Thanks for the many reactions and suggestions. I'm glad that the correct information is now available.
The Children of Hurin by Houghton Mifflin
Earlier today I also received the news from a spokesman of Houghton Mifflin that by the end of this month there will be in total 625.000 copies of the US The Children of Hurin in print. The 1st impression has been completely sent out to stores (so if you are lucky you can still find a 1st impression at your local store) and are now sending out the second printing run (1st edition, 2nd impression). Furthermore I was told the 3rd impression is already being printed right now and will be delivered to the stores before the end of this month! Exact figures were not available but I will add them here once they arrive (I was promised to get them by mail later today).
The Children of Hurin Deluxe Edition Giveaway
Tolkien Library and Houghton Mifflin are teaming up to celebrate the publication of the deluxe edition of The Children of Hurin by Houghton Mifflin. For the release we will be giving away 2 copies of the deluxe edition of The Children of Hurin by Houghton Mifflin (a true 1st printing, 1st impression). The giveaway will last from May 16th 2007 to May 30th 2007. To be able to win enter code DELUXE EDITION and answer HOUGHTON MIFFLIN at this form.
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