Book Buying Tips
Buying a book sounds like a simple task because it is a simple task--if you know how to do it. I have gone through a lot of trial and error throughout my years of book-searching, and I have learned that what really helps me to find a good book is to have a loose book buying guideline-- and obviously a basic knowledge of my taste. This does not go to say that if you follow a guideline, you will never screw up book buying again, but you will have a better defence against those sneaky publishers who play dirty dirty for a sale (e.g. disguise garbage with an especially literary cover or blurb).
Starter Tip: It is best to avoid things like "Nancy Drew 
Does New York".
What Books Should You Consider?
Here are some tips to help you discover what type of book you will enjoy:
 | - Look for patterns in your reading selections. Your past book choices will tell you a lot about the books you should purchase.
- What authors do you like? Research books by authors you've enjoyed in the past. Chances are they'll have another publication that you'll also enjoy.
- Is there a book genre or a specific book you would like to try?
- Are there any books in a certain series you would like to read?
- Make use of the search key in library and book store computers. Insert your interests into the catalogue search and set it to "Keyword."
- If you respect the taste of a particular friend, professor, or family member ask them for recommendations. The people with whom you share your interests will usually steer you in the right direction.
- Keep your own reading list. When a book has been recommended to you, write it down immediately and use it as a reference once you're in the library or book store.
- Don't think you have to read or like a book just because everyone else does. If you are reading a book that you don't like or can't get through, it's okay to abandon it for something else. This happened to me with "The Unbearable Lightness of Being. " Because everyone raved about it, I made myself push through it--which was a bit agonising. I really thought I was missing something until I realised the book was just not for me.
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Where Should You Get Your Books?
 | - Online book stores often have lower rates and special deals that are hard to beat--in my opinion this is the best way to purchase books. If you do choose a walk-in book shop, I would recommend something second-hand--I have gotten some amazing books in these places.
- If you need to buy a lot of books--say for a class--but you do not want to dip into the weekly food budget, check out websites that specialise in used books. Some people do not trust this method, but it is rare that a seller will intentionally deceive you--they are usually subject to sellers' policies and agreements...and with good buyer's feedback, they increase the likelihood of making new costumers.
- Going to a library is always a great option for someone who wants to save money or test out a new author. If you fall in love with a book, you can purchase it later on.
- There are also online sites that let you download and read entire books straight from your computer. Personally, I don't like to do this, but to each his own.
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My Quick Picks
My personal recommendations:
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Classics |
Biographies/Memoirs |
Fantasy/Science Fiction/Adventure
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Fiction/Novels |
Book Reviewers
I usually don't depend on reviewers to lead me to books, but if you really don't know what to buy, you may want to read up on what others have to say about the subject--book blogs are especially helpful.
External Links
