Paperback Or Hardback Books

Yes, yes, I know - I've already put this one up in the last forum ages ago but it's still an interesting poll - plus it adds another topic to the 'Book' section lol.

Simply then, in an ideal world, would you prefer to read Paperback or Hardcover books?

My choice is Paperback, simply because they are cheaper, smaller and easier to carry. Simple as that!

I prefer hardback books to display, however paperbacks are far more convienient - except on the beach when the spine melts!!

Paperbacks are fine in theory - but if I'm really waiting for a book (and at the moment, I'm waiting for Wintersmith - Terry Pratchett), I cannot wait for the paperback.

Hardbacks for me although the price usually means I resort tot he paperback unless its an amazon voucher purpose. I would like to own all Pratchett and King's books in hardback eventually, preferably in first edition too with paperback for reading on the move.

I've collected all my Stephen King books in hardback so far, except for Wizard and Glass, which isn'r paperback but sort of thick shiny cardboard back??

I love hardbacks though, so much better looking although bulkier to read on the bus etc

It doesnt make too much of a difference really but harback is just better looking. Plus, since a lot of boks come out in hardback first (for extra money), thats what i buy.

I buy most of my books from either a book club or from Oxfam book shop. hat means that I can afford to buy hardbacks though there is no way i would pay full price for them. Most of my stuff is reference and so gets re-read on a regular basis and so HB stands the test of time so much better. I pretty much live in a library these days and HB's have the added attraction of looking more decorative.

Hardbacks are overrated, with the only real thing that makes them desirable is that they look more impressive in your bookcase and don't show the same wear and tear as easily. Still, paperbacks all the way.

I don't mind either - I buy more hardback's because I like getting books when they first come out, but I'm happy to read from PB or HB! Do agree that hardback's look better on the bookshelf though!

As I usually read in bed at night I prefer a paperback, simply because it is lighter to hold when laying down....and they take up less room in suitcase too when travelling!

Cheapest

I don't mind either one. I have lots of hardbacks and lots of paperbacks.

I have to agree about the holding the book up in bed though, paperbacks are much lighter. Can you imagine holding the full version of LOTR up in bed as a hardback ?? It's nigh on impossible, makes your arms ache like mad !! Thats why I had to settle for the paperbacks to read in bed, but all the hardbacks on my display shelf !!