Why The Size Of Your Book Matters

We see books in all shapes and sizes nowadays, and many of us just take that for granted. But the truth is that the size of your book does matter, quite a lot more than you might imagine. When someone reads a book, they want it to feel great in their hands and not over-encumber them. That’s why sizes like 5.5″w x 8.5″h , 6″w x 9″h, 8.5″w x 11″h and so on are very similar in the world of books.

Which is the handiest type of book?

Paperbacks that are A6, A5 and A4 are popular sizing terms recognized in Europe and Asia while sizes like 5.5″w x 8.5″h and 6″w x 9″h are terms used in North America. Smaller size books like 4″w x 6″h and 5″w x 8″h tend to be very popular because they fit nicely in your hands or pocket, even a purse. The downside for them is that they tentatively have small font sizes. Hardcovers are usually preferred because they are sturdier and can read them with ease. Sometimes they are larger than paperbacks, and also visually imposing. The downside is that they are quite heavy and if you fall asleep while reading a hardcover book upside down, it might hurt if it falls onto your face – ouch.

Paperbacks range from 4″w x 6″h, 5″w x8″h , 5.5″w x 8.5″h, 6″w x 9″h, 8.5″w x 11″h and go up to 12”w x 18”h. Many self-published authors go for 5.5″w x 8.5″h or 6″w x 9″h because they can be smaller in size and cheaper to produce. You can also find larger trade paperbacks, as these are mostly used for non-fiction.

Portability

A lot of readers like the smaller dimension books. Most books for kids are very colorful and small, although they are hardback and last for a longer period, but some like it bigger for a larger visual appeal. Many readers that take books with them end up buying smaller dimension titles because they are portable and easier to use. Granted, they might have to deal with a smaller font size, but that’s not an issue that will arise in a situation like this.

Personal Preference

You need to realize that the size of a book is something very subjective. Some people love to have those large, incredible, and visually imposing books because they display well in your bookshelf even after you read everything. However, others focus more on portability, so in that case having less books are a very good idea to go for the smaller ones.

Generally, you have larger books for kids and the smaller ones are suitable for adults. But there are smaller books for kids as well. What really matters the most is how the book is presented, how well it feels in your hands and if you like the design.

Other things like font size, cover style, if it’s hardcover or not, if it has a durable spine are just as important. Each one of these things makes quite the difference, and it really shows the value and quality being brought to the table. That’s what makes it well worth it every time, so try to take that into consideration. It’s very personal to pick a certain book style, but in the end it’s always worth it since you want something that represents you, and which also offers the usability you want.