a final draft of a book that may go out to reviewers or agents or any number of other people in the publishing business before the public ever sees a page of it
a prepublication issue published in illustrated paper wraps similar to the dust jacket design, and distributed within the book industry often for the purpose of publicity
An advance prepublication copy of the book sent to reviewers and booksellers, usually softcover.
a copy of a book produced in advance of the trade edition for reviewers, booksellers, and others in the trade. An advance reading copy is usually bound in pictorial wrappers with the finished cover art.
A special pre-publication issue published in wrappers. Issued for publicity purposes. Occasionally there are textual differences between an advance reading copy and a first edition. Usually in pictorial wraps similar to the dust jacket art that is to be used on the first trade edition. Preceded by an advance uncorrected proof copy which is usually in plain colored wrappers.
A copy of the book issued prior to publication date and sent to reviewers, influential individuals who may be asked for testimonials, or influential booksellers to familiarize them with the book before it appears for sale. Response to the ARC may affect the size of the initial print run. The cover will bear the statement "Advance Reading Copy" (or something that indicates it is not the final version), and the back cover commonly carries the publication information that will also be included in the media kits, etc., that go out later. [See also Galley and Blad.