This is a bit of a random post. But I had something happen to me today that got under my skin. And apart from just venting a little, I wanted to know your thoughts on this.
A day or two ago I went out with a mate. I came home to see most of my books off my shelf and placed elsewhere. Now my mothers intentions were completely good. She thought my shelf was a little over crowded and thought she'd clear it up. But what she didn't realise was that I had specifically put my favourite books on that shelf; Jellicoe road being right at the front. Apart from being a tad annoyed that I would have to sort my shelf out all over again (which I did today) , I spotted two books stuck behind my bookshelf. They must have fallen in the process of her clearing the shelf out. One was perfectly fine, but when I spotted the other, being Jellicoe Road, I'll admit, I held in a breath. So when I saw what had happened to it, I just stared for a moment and just really felt gutted.
Look below.
From afar it doesn't look as bad, but it really is. Like many other readers, I've always been very careful with my books. Every book of mine is in perfect condition. So to have this happen, and ironically to my favourite book of all time, it was quite the blow.
It's not just about the book. Because I have an extra copy that's in perfect condition. It's more about the sentimental value it holds. This was the copy I held in my hands the first time I read Jellicoe road. It still holds the bits of tissue that I used to bookmark my favourite bits. It was one of the first books I had ever reread. I couldn't bear to part with it so I took it to holiday with me. Being in my bag and suitcase whilst on holiday, and reading it one too many times did take its toll. But only in the sense that the edges of the cover weren't perfectly straight anymore. It was the only book on my shelf that didn't look brand new. But I grew to love this worn out look it had - a look that a book can only have from being read one too many times.
The only book I would be OK with looking a little worn. But as you can see above, the damage there can't be fixed. Even the white lines outlining the cover are prominent. As if the creased page weren't bad enough. *sighs*
It would be easier if it was done intentionally. At least then I would be able to vent to that person and tell them how much they suck for ruining my favourite book that I love so freaking much it's crazy. But it wasn't intentional, and it's also my mother.
So
I just have to suck it up, which is what's frustrating :/
So yeah, maybe some will think I'm overreacting, but I can't help but be sad. I explained to my mum what happened. But she didn't really understand why it bothered me. So that's that I guess.
I don't even want to look at it because I know it will just really bother me.
I guess my question to you is:
How are you when it comes to your books? Are you quite easygoing about them or are you all about keeping them in great condition.
And if you had this happen to your favourite book (or any of your book for that matter) , what would you do or how would you go about it.
Sulk and blog to let off some steam like me? :)
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