Readers have rallied to defend hardback books after an article argued they should be abandoned in favour of paperbacks. The piece, published on 6 May, claimed hardbacks are heavy, awkward and prohibitively expensive, but correspondents have pushed back, citing durability, readability and aesthetic value.
John Davies from Caerphilly acknowledged the high cost of hardbacks, noting a recent £35 price tag, and conceded they are awkward to read except at a desk. However, he highlighted their durability, which libraries, secondhand shops and charity shops rely on. He also pointed out that larger print in hardbacks is a boon for older readers. “Please, Larry, choose a different hill to expire on and spare the hardbacks,” he wrote.
Stuart Harrington from Burnham-on-Sea, Somerset, described the hardback as a “statement of intent” compared to the flimsy paperback, which “flops about like it’s apologising for existing”. He argued that hardbacks encourage upright reading with tea, while paperbacks invite slouching and commuting. “A hardback will outlive you, your shelving system and possibly western civilisation,” he added.
Ruth Baker from Matfield, Kent, likened books to people, noting that paperbacks lack the stamina for frequent reference. She conceded that hardbacks are difficult to read on the tube but suggested that is “the perfect opportunity to catch up with the Guardian”.
