Hardbacks versus paperbacks

The St Kilda LR book club had a lively debate a few weeks back on their preferences between hardback books and paperbacks.


plusses for hardcovers:

• hardcovers feel genuine, paperbacks feel 'copied'
• paperbacks are bendy and can go out of shape really easily, their corners bend and break apart
• hardcovers are collectible things
• hardcovers can resist wind, they are stronger if you drop them and they are more waterproof
• paperbacks soak up water and break apart
• hardcovers are better because they look better and publishers put more effort into their front cover
• they are much more hardy, they are easier to take care of and they keep looking good.

plusses for the paperbacks:

• hardcovers are more expensive
• hardcover extra covers (dust jackets) get wrinkled and they’re annoying and you have to throw them out
• hardcover corners are pointy and sharp
• if you drop a hardcover you can hurt your toes
• paperbacks are easier to hold, not so heavy
• paperbacks don’t hurt as much if somebody hits you over the head with one!
• if burning, paperbacks don’t let off as much poisonous fumes!!!

Seems pretty even to us - what do you think? Leave a comment below, or why not vote in the poll (you can find that on the left of the screen.)