Why My Favourite Physical Books Still Outshine E-Readers (and Yours Should Too!)

There is no denying the wonder of e-readers. A single (and waterproof) e-reader, weighing less than 200 grams, can carry thousands of books. Neither can their convenience be contested, as many a traveler can attest. They are great! That having been respectfully acknowledged, the unique benefits of a physical book remain unparalleled for me, and for countless millions of readers.

My own love of physical books began in childhood. Great illustrated books about past empires, explorers, dinosaurs, extraordinary historical characters and futuristic space stations all fueled my imagination. My father had his own personal library, and there were always lots of books lying around. Just looking at grown-up book titles as a boy was mind expanding and an education in and of itself. Whether it was a book on some strange man named Ghandi with his image on the cover, or that interesting looking bird on the cover of Audubon’s Birds of America, it was impossible to completely ignore those books. My own personal library began with a collection of comic books namely, Asterix and Tintin. The hardcovers I noticed looked nicer and felt better to hold; but they also cost quite a bit more, and so, most of my comics were soft cover.

My interest in books took a back seat to music and everything else that was going on as a teen, but it was as a student preparing for my master’s degree on the Donatist schism in Roman North Africa that really immersed me into the world of books. The research was very intense, and many articles were not to be found on databases. Through the University, I had access to rare physical books that could be brought in from all over Canada, the US, and Europe. This is where I began to appreciate the high value of certain books. Many were truly rare but also supremely important to research. In some instances, I travelled to far off libraries to access books, archaeological maps, and documents that could only be accessed in situ, and only handled with gloves. I began noticing which books had held up well against time, and which had deteriorated. I also began to discern quality based on publisher and edition. I lived and breathed libraries for years as a scholar and loved it! Even on my breaks in the library, I would wander through the different floors and aisles, constantly scanning for interesting books on all subjects. Occasionally, I would stumble on a real beauty; a beautifully made, super-interesting, rare edition. And although I was so grateful to be able to access or borrow such gems, I also worried about their fate if improperly handled or cared for. That concern for preserving important physical books would lead me in great part to create Estimable Books.

The Sensory Experience: Each physical book has its own unique, almost metaphysical, quality, feel and personality. The physical property of a book creates an immersive reading experience. Weight, size, colour, smell and age all differ. One can feel the texture of the cover and the pages and hear the rustle of the pages turning. One can skim and flick through the pages and admire the page design and typography; and at times, beautiful illustrations and colour plates in older volumes like this.

Focus:

Multiple studies have shown that reading books helps improve memory and general brain function and focus. Ever notice how lucid seniors that read are. Books are a wonderful way to actively engage the mind. Reading a book can help improve focus and expand attention span – there are no distracting notifications, nor is anything condensed for passive micro-activity a la Instagram, X or TikTok. 

Much has been written about eye strain and the effect of blue light and screen fatigue on general eye health and sleep; and with good reason. And while quality e-readers are better for the eyes than LED screens or tablets, even the best ones (that emit less harsh light to mimic paper) can still cause eye strain. Reading physical books (with proper lighting) is easier on the eyes than on any screen.  

The Physicality & Collection:

There is always something to be said about books as works of art. Many of the most beautiful homes are filled with books. Interior decorators love books and custom made books shelves. Book-laden shelves or personal libraries can look fantastic, often adding style and character to any room. My old living room’s personal library was a source of fabulous conversations and entertainment. I would take interested guests on a tour of my shelves starting with my section on the Pre-Socratics and Greek thinkers. We were never at a loss of subjects to talk about. Oh, the joy! 

In fact, great joy can be found in curating, organizing, and collecting books. Seeing one’s library grow and improve over time can turn into a great and worthwhile hobby. I found that over time, my collection became more refined; to the point where, a book had to be worthy (in my estimation at least) to make it onto my shelves. Eventually, I upgraded to very nice shelves, as the shelves themselves had to be worthy of the books they housed. Eventually, even the room had to be fitting! Art must always be housed in a worthy space. 

Every book evokes a memory – where it was bought, and what it meant. The best books in my opinion are to be found in used bookstores. Sometimes, stuffed inside the pages of previous owned book, one can find an old publisher’s inserts, or personal notes; a a post card, receipt or old bus or opera tickets. These items add even more character to books. That’s why I always leave the items on the exact same page where I found them - even when I sell a book. I’d like to think the new owner will also leave that vintage intact 1982 ATM receipt tucked inside the same page I found it.   

Books also make for wonderful gifts. I no longer lend books out as people rarely return them, but gifting books with a little personal note tucked inside makes for a memorable and appreciated gift. It really can be the gift that keeps on giving, as it can be shared, read by others or passed on.  

Longevity & Heritage:  Books do not require batteries, electricity or software updates. They do not suffer electronic or equipment obsolescence. They just are, and can last a very longtime. Often, they are the oldest objects in a room. Holding an old book, especially one that is over a hundred years old, is always special; especially for those who have a sense and appreciation of history. An old book that has made its way down through the ages and generations is a survivor. It is worthy of great respect, as are the homes and owners who (even though they might not even have read the book) were careful enough to look after it.

Books hold a very important and special place for humans. Imagine presenting and explaining the concept of a printed book (or e-reader for that matter) to a pre-historic human, before the invention of writing. It would appear to be a magical object. For book lovers around the world including myself, the physical book, will forever remain a magical and wondrous object. They can be touched and experienced in a hands-on fully tactile kinesthetic way, and remain impervious to software upgrades, glitches, and chip degradation. My hope is that every book I carry, and sell, will find its way into the right hands, and outlast us all. What’s the one physical book you will never let go of?