How is it that an uncorrected proof for a novel came into my possession? How are these versions distributed?

In the publishing industry, reviewers generally want to see a copy of a novel 4–6 months before publication date. In fact, most review journals, magazines, and professional book reviewers will refuse to accept a review copy any later than 4 months before pub date.

That creates problems, because while traditional publishers do have long lead times, a book is usually still being proofread 4 months before it officially publishes.

Enter the uncorrected galley proof, the uncorrected proof, or the advance review copy (which is technically slightly different but is generally the same basic idea).

These are printed, bound copies of a book, usually but not always with the final book cover, that have not yet been through final proofreading. The publisher may print a dozen or so of these, to send to reviewers as well as to the author. If the book is expected to be popular, the publisher may print scores of copies.

They’ll generally say something like “Uncorrected Galley” or “Uncorrected Proof” on the cover. They often don’t have the final back cover copy, and may have book trade information or contact information for the book’s publicist on the back. They may or may not include things like the acknowledgments or the author’s afterword.

They’re not that uncommon. They’re supposed to be destroyed after the book is reviewed, but you’ll sometimes find them in used book stores and so forth.

This is an advance review copy of the novel I have coming out in October:

The back cover has publisher’s information, the email address of the publisher, and printing and distribution information, rather than the actual back cover copy that goes on the final printing.