A Guide to the Condition of Our Books
Linden Books sells second-hand books to people that are looking for great fiction that can be hard to find in traditional bookshops. As is the case with all preloved items, there is often likely to be some wear, and the amount of that wear varies from book to book. We thoroughly check and grade each book as it comes in.
Peace of Mind
On this page you will find a guide to the grading of our books. We also provide photographs of each book, and describe its condition, so that you have the peace of mind of knowing exactly what book condition you are purchasing. We pride ourselves on being as transparent as possible about the condition of each book. That’s why you won’t find “stock photos” of any books on this website, just actual photos of the real books on sale.
Our Book Grading Guide
Like New
- A book that has been read, but looks new
- The book cover is clean and crisp
- The dust jacket (if applicable) is included for hardbacks
- No missing or damaged pages
- No creases or tears
- No underlining or highlighting of text
- No writing in the margins
- No inscriptions in the inside cover
Very Good
- Some minimal creasing on the spine
- Straight binding (spine not noticeably twisted)
- Little or no discolouration on pages
- Includes dust jacket (hardbacks)
Good
- Slightly twisted spine or slight tearing on dust jacket
- Light creases on cover
- Mild browning on pages or cover
- Slight highlighting or writing on pages
Acceptable
- Spine may be warped, cracked or scuffed
- Cover may be marked or creased
- Pages may be browned and warped
- Markings and note taking may be present that don’t obstruct reading
- End papers or title page may be missing
- May be some water damage
- Cover slightly torn
About Linden Books
Linden Books sells second hand crime and vintage books. All our books are used, but we provide a photo of each individual book so you know exactly what you are getting.