Hardback or paperback?

[MaybeTheMoon]

I find hardbacks so unwieldy - they take up lots of space on the shelf and are difficult to read easily in bed (lying on my side).

Yet I want to read new stuff out, like the new Kate Atkinson.

I realise the book companies do this to make more money. But it's SO annoying. Why can't they just release the paperback at the same time and gradually discount it as time goes on (a bit like CD releases).

I agree. Hardbacks are too big to carry around and I read on the train. I like the half way house type books you can get at airports, at least they are lighter.

What about e books? My friend is always trying to convince me but I am - I like a paper book in my hand.

I agree too. Hardbacks are a pain to read, but for some books I hate having to wait for the paperbacks.

I think ebooks would be great for holidays (sometimes it feels as though half our luggage is books ) but I will always prefer an actual copy on the shelf as I often go back to refer to them.

...should that be half our luggage are books?

I just love the feel (and smell) of a new chunky hardback though. They just feel so special because you know they cost more than a paperback and if it is a book I want to read again and treasure then I want the hardback.

I want to read the new Kate Atkinson too!