Picador has caused what some are calling a seismic change in the world of books. From next year, the UK's 8th largest book publisher will by-pass hardbacks and launch almost all of its new novels in paperback. Other publishers are expected to follow, although some aren't so sure:
My experience is that hardbacks are bulky, while paperbacks are a lot easier to carry round and to read on the move. And Dunseath's comment about price doesn't ring true with me. Most of the hardbacks I'd like to read are priced in the £15 - £20 range, and I'm usually happy to wait until the paperback version appears.
Of course, money is behind the move. Although booksellers have been discounting hardbacks, sales are still falling, while paperbacks continue to be best-sellers.
"Kirsty Dunseath, publishing director of Weidenfield & Nicholson, said the move could lessen the prestige of the novels. "Coming out in hardback is a statement of confidence in a novel and gets the reviews," she said. "It doesn't say much for your confidence coming out in paperback. Anyway, £12.99 isn't such a high price to pay - you'd happily pay that for a CD."
My experience is that hardbacks are bulky, while paperbacks are a lot easier to carry round and to read on the move. And Dunseath's comment about price doesn't ring true with me. Most of the hardbacks I'd like to read are priced in the £15 - £20 range, and I'm usually happy to wait until the paperback version appears.
Of course, money is behind the move. Although booksellers have been discounting hardbacks, sales are still falling, while paperbacks continue to be best-sellers.
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