The Fireside Chats

Paperbacks versus hardcovers versus e-books versus audiobooks………which one do you prefer to read?

Paperbacks: For some reason, I’ve always liked paperbacks over hardcovers and I don’t know why. I do love the smell of books, in general, but that wouldn’t change from paperbacks to hardcovers. Maybe I just like the way a paperback feels in my hands. I do know that when it comes to buying books, paperbacks are usually cheaper than a hardcover so I can usually buy more of them.

Hardcovers: While I do prefer paperbacks over the hardcovers, hardcovers do tend to be sturdier than a paperback so they’ll more likely last longer. Hardcovers do tend to cost more when purchasing books, unless I happen to find it in the bargain section. Sometimes I can wait till the book comes out in paperback but I’ll admit that I’ve purchased a book in hardcover form because I couldn’t wait.

E-books: I do have some e-books on my Kindle. I specifically have this so that I can take plenty of reading material with me when I travel. My Kindle Fire (along with the charging cable) doesn’t take up a lot of room in my carry on bag. It’s a lot easier to travel with that than try to stuff a bunch of books in my bag.

Audiobooks: This is the only option I haven’t tried. I have a rather short commute to work and back so it would probably take me at least six months (if not longer) just to get through one book. I don’t really see myself listening to an audiobook outside of driving around in my car.

So, while I’ll always read, I tend to prefer my books in physical form. You can’t enjoy that smell from anything but the actual book in your hands. I will resort to the occasional e-book when I’m traveling just because my Kindle doesn’t take up much space. Which one do you utilize when you’re getting your reading fix?