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"Reading Copy" - This is a term used in the used book business, to indicate the lack of collectible value, while claiming that the book is in sufficiently good condition for a purchaser whose interest is primarily in actually reading the book.
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I have discussed elsewhere on these boards my history of acquiring Tolkien's writings. Today, I picked up my "reading copy" of LoTR (single volume, hardcover, circa 2004 - not the Big Red One) to secure a quote for a post I made earlier. The front cover was separating from the hinge, the text was separating from the covers and the spine was splitting. In short, any degree of handling will result in my single volume becoming a trilogy or more.
This is very annoying to me. As I have commented elsewhere, my first copy of LoTR (softcover, three volumes, Ballantine Books, the white ones with JRRT's own artwork on the covers) lasted nearly 25 years. Moreover, the demise of that copy was caused by an outside force; one of my kids tore it/them to pieces with great joy and relish.
The hardcover reading copy that I replaced it with about 15 years ago (and did not read nearly as often) was chosen with some thought. I wanted a robust and rugged copy, nothing special or rare, that would last and that I could handle comfortably. I apparently did not think enough when I selected this copy.
So, I am now seeking a new reading copy. I will emend the definition given above by clarifying that it need not be used. Nor do I specifically care whether it comes in one volume or three, or is hardcover or paperback. I am looking for an edition that will last and that I can read comfortably and without concern that my searching through it might cause it to disintegrate. I do prefer that it look nice (no movie tie-ins please). Also, I live in the US, to the extent that makes any difference.
Suggestions? Recommendations? And while we're at it, what is your favorite edition?