Book Buying Addicts Anonymous discussion

I can't believe I did, but I actually returned a book to Borders the other day. I've NEVER returned a book before. On the other hand, the reason I returned it was because I found I could get it cheaper from the Book Depository, so I guess I didn't really return it. Oh well. Any of you ever actually return a book to the store and NOT get a replacement copy of it? What book and why?

I returned an Ospry book on Japanaese battleships last year. Noticed that the first half dozen pages were out of order - clearly a publishing flaw. I took it back for refund, for what it cost, I at least wanted the pages in order. Havent replaced it, the one they later had on the shelf was the same - probably the one I returned - hoping to find a used copy for lower price.

I bought a book from Half Price and found that the first three chapters where riped out.So I returned it. I was so sad.

When people return books to me I won't take it back if its because they've found it cheaper elsewhere. You wouldn't go to a supermarket and try that one! I also have had one customer just once who wanted to return a book because his daughter had read the first chapter and didn't like it. Another customer (family to the one with the daughter) ordered a whole load of very expensive books on RAF slang in WWII. He brought them back after a couple of weeks saying one of the books was the wrong edition. I wouldn't take it back and the next time he bought books he bounced a cheque on me. I never got the money.

If people find books damaged from my shop then I refund the money and give them a small discount on any other book the purchase and an extra 'tick' on their discount card. If they buy the wrong book - as for a gift, then I will exchange it or give a gift voucher.


I have returned damaged books loads of times. I find the best company to deal with complaints is Booksamillion, I phone them, they send a return label and refund the money all in minutes.

I don't remember the book, but many years ago I returned a best seller after about 50 pages because it was so terribly written. Other than that, I've only returned books I've been given and already owned or damaged (mildewed mail-order, sliced cover, missing pages).