In 2020, we’re extremely lucky that reading is so accessible. There are several different ways to enjoy a good book and I’ve tried them all – paperbacks, hardbacks, audiobooks, kindles, Epub files etc.
In a world that’s becoming increasingly digital, there’s honestly nothing I love more than curling up on my sofa with a good paperback. I’m ashamed to admit it, but I probably spend 80% of my time looking at various different screens, whether it be my computer screen at work, my phone or the TV.
Reading is one of the only times I genuinely switch off from technology completely (more often than not, I put my phone on the do not disturb setting), which is why I made the decision a few years back to get rid of my kindle.
For me, physical copies of books, more specifically paperbacks, will always be my preference and here’s my top 10 reasons why!
- The smell – There’s nothing better than the smell of a fresh paperback. It’s one of the many reasons I spend so much time in bookstores.
- They’re small enough to carry everywhere – Hardbacks are okay, but can be a pain to carry around, especially when you have a small bag. Paperbacks take up minimal room, meaning you can always have one with you.
- You can pick them up on the cheap – I always find that hardbacks can prove quite expensive, but there’s so many cost-effective ways to pick up paperbacks – charity shops, book swaps with friends and even those book stands you find in local supermarkets.
- They look great in photos – #bookstagram anyone? Possibly my favourite ever way to discover new books and I personally think paperbacks look the prettiest in pictures.
- You can donate them to charity – Okay, so this applies to hardbacks too, but physical copies of books can be passed on whereas digital ones can’t. Enjoying a good book before donating it to raise money for a good cause – what could be better?
- Conditions of books matters – Books are meant to be enjoyed, so I love nothing better than seeing one that’s clearly been well read. I’m talking creased corners, broken spines and sticky notes everywhere. Never trust somebody’s opinion on a book that looks like it’s never been touched – it probably hasn’t.
- People are less likely to steal a book – The average price of a paperback is around £6, so it’s unlikely anybody will want to steal one when it’s poking out of your bag on the train. You can’t guarantee the same with a kindle though!
- They make great gifts – I’m totally biased but there’s nothing better than unwrapping a book at Christmas/ on your birthday. Paperbacks are also an ideal size and shape for wrapping, and make great stocking fillers.
- They can be passed on with ease – The best stories should always be shared and paperbacks are so easy to pass onto friends, relatives and any other bookworms to enjoy.
- Full bookshelves – Because there’s nothing more aesthetically pleasing than a full bookshelf in your house, right?
