A Tiny Paperback and a Reality Check

I recently went to my local library to return a book and—my favorite part—pick up two books that had come in that I’d placed on hold.

Naturally, I had to stop at the main display case when I walked in. You know the one. The “new arrivals” section. The one that whispers, You don’t have enough books yet.

Of course I grabbed one.

Anyway, I made my way to the desk and happily chatted with one of the librarians. They all know me there. Not only am I their local author, but I’m also in there constantly because… well… I love books.

So she checks out my books and slides the stack toward me.

And that’s when I notice it. One of the books I placed on hold is a paperback.

Now, don’t get me wrong. I love paperbacks. But this wasn’t just any paperback. This was one of those tiny paperbacks.

You know the ones. The very small ones that used to be popular years ago—back before publishers started printing books in sizes humans could actually read without a microscope.

I’m pushing 50. My eyes, even with glasses, are not what they once were.

So now I’m staring at this tiny little book with what I can only assume is microscopic print.

Did I say anything? Of course not. I smiled politely, took my stack of books, and walked out like a normal person… while internally thinking, There is absolutely no way I’m going to be able to read this.

I guess I have two options now: Start requesting large print editions, or actually pay attention to the size of the books I place on hold.

Lesson learned.

Maybe.

What about you? Do you have a favorite book format or size? Hardcover? Trade paperback? Large print? Or are you one of those magical people who can still read tiny print without squinting?