If you've ever bought a book, you've probably been hit by the confusion that bibliophiles everywhere feel: paper covers or hard covers? Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and by knowing the pluses and minuses, you can make your choice and start reading.
Step
Method 1 of 4: Choosing Based on Price and Purpose
Step 1. Save money by buying paper covers
As all budget readers know, paper covers are the least expensive option. In America, paper covers fall into two categories: trade versions that are $10 to $15 cheaper, and mass-market versions that are even cheaper, costing even less than $10.
Step 2. Buy a hard cover if you want to read the book as soon as it's published
Most books are published first with hard covers, then reissued a few months later with paperback versions to increase sales. If you've been waiting for a certain book for a long time, feel free to treat yourself to a more expensive edition so you can enjoy it right away.
Step 3. Choose a paper cover if you are going to read on the go
Because they are light and flexible, paper covers are great for taking on planes and cars, or even for traveling back and forth to school or work. Carry a paperback book in your bag or even in your pocket if you're going to have a relaxing time to read.
Step 4. Choose a hard cover if you plan to save it
Hardback books are built to last, withstand daily opening and long-term storage. Meanwhile, paperback books are more prone to tearing, creasing, and staining, and over time the glue on their backs weakens or the paper begins to break. If you cannot devote the time and effort to maintaining a paperback book, choose a hardcover edition.
Step 5. Buy a hard cover for a gift
If you're gifting a book to a friend or family member, try looking for a hardcover edition. Hardback books look better and more satisfying when they are opened from the gift box, and the recipient will appreciate your effort in giving them a special version.
Don't worry if you don't have the funds to buy a hardcover edition or if it's out of stock. The most important thing is to choose a good book for loved ones to enjoy
Method 2 of 4: Choosing Based on the Look and Feel of the Book
Step 1. Choose a cover that matches the other books on your shelf
Some people like to see books that are the same height because they look better on the shelf. Books with paperbacks are published in various heights. So, for the sake of a tidy bookshelf, opt for a more consistent hardcover edition.
Trade version paper covers are sometimes issued at the same height as hard covers. So, first check the size of the shelves and other books before deciding. If the paper cover editions are the same height, you can save money, but keep the shelves tidy
Step 2. Select the appropriate edition of the other books in the same series
Try to be consistent if the book you buy is part of a series. Buy hardbacks if all the books in the series are hardbacks, and buy paperbacks if they're all paperbacks. All book lovers who are concerned with aesthetics almost all agree that uniformity will be better once displayed on the shelf.
Step 3. Purchase a paper cover for easy handling
Smaller and lighter, paperback books are easier to hold with one hand. You can read comfortably on the bed or sofa, or while holding the handrails or MRT train poles.
Step 4. Choose a hard cover for easy laying
There are some paperback books that are difficult to lay out if you don't want to damage the back and cause vertical wrinkles. In fact, you might even open the book a little to keep the back smooth, but reading becomes more difficult. You don't have to face this problem if you choose a hard cover. Books can be opened wide on the table or on the lap.
Step 5. Choose the version with a more attractive cover
Hardback books usually have a fancy design. In fact, in non-"special edition" hardcover versions, sometimes there are still attractive images on the outer cover, inner cover, and even on pages that are not available in the paper cover version. On the other hand, sometimes the paper cover design is more attractive to you personally. If aesthetics is a major consideration, choose whichever version you find more appealing.
Method 3 of 4: Publishing Your Own Book on a Paper Cover or a Hard Cover
Step 1. Self-publish your book with a paper cover to attract aesthetic critics and readers
The cost is indeed more expensive, but many readers like high quality. Hardcovers also allow your book to be voted on by the media and book critics, who tend to think of hardcovers as more “literary” works, although this is unfair.
Step 2. Choose a paper cover with the pages printed on quality book paper
In America, it falls under the trade paperback category. This version is printed on good paper, is quite heavy, and is roughly the same size as a hard cover. This version is quality, but costs less than the hardcover edition. Your book will look good so that it can attract readers on a budget who still care about physical appearance.
Step 3. Save money by choosing a paperback edition that is printed on thin paper/newspaper
In America, this edition is included in the mass-market paperback. It may not look as good as the hardcover or trade cover editions, but American publishing companies find mass-market editions effective for introducing new authors and helping to attract readers.
Step 4. Consider electronic publishing
E-books are a rapidly growing medium and allow you to be recognized by many readers online. You can also save more money that was previously budgeted for printing costs. If you choose this option, you may not get the satisfaction of holding a physical book in your hand, but remember that electronic publishing is a stepping stone to publishing a physical book. This is only part of the process.
Method 4 of 4: Considering Alternative Readings
Step 1. Choose an audiobook to enjoy while doing other things
Listen to audiobooks while driving or doing household chores, or close your eyes until you fall asleep. While there's no satisfaction in holding a book and moving your eyes up and down the page, audiobooks are still a great option for busy people who find time to "read" whenever the opportunity arises.
Step 2. Try the e-reader for convenience
The perfect e-reader for book lovers on the go. You can store your collection of books on a tablet that fits in your hand and buy books on the go. This tool is also very friendly for readers with visual impairments because the font size and spacing can be adjusted. In addition, e-books are usually cheaper than hardcover or paperback editions although some book lovers prefer the sensation of holding a physical book and turning the pages.
Purchase an e-reader device that does not emit light to prevent eye strain or fatigue
Step 3. Use a reading app on your phone so you can read anywhere and anytime
Another option that is no less interesting for people who travel a lot are apps like iBooks or Kindle which are usually free (although you have to buy the books first). This app is a very helpful option if you're stuck somewhere and don't have a book or e-reader with you, or there's nowhere to take a book when you need to leave the house.
Tips
- The outer cover will wear down over time, but you can protect it with clear plastic.
- Reinforce and increase the durability of paperback books with clear plastic covers or hard-cover bindings.
