Author: Ali

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Postage Price Changes

Postage Price Changes

As of today, October 7th, we’ve had to make a small change to keep up with Royal Mail’s recent price increase. Here’s what you need to know!

Royal Mail has raised their postage prices, and since we only charge you the exact cost to send your books, our postage prices have increased accordingly. Effective today, October 7th, 2025. For thin books (large letter size), the price has moved from £2.70 to £2.75. For most larger books (parcel size), the price has gone up from £3.45 to £3.55. For particularly heavy books, the price has increased from £6.80 to £7.05. We’ve always aimed to keep shipping as affordable as possible, and we’ll continue to pass on only what we’re charged.

At StrangeBooks, we’re still committed to bringing you the best secondhand reads at great prices. While some postage prices are going up, we’re keeping free delivery on all orders over £15 (in the UK only), so you can still enjoy your book hauls without extra shipping costs.

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Why I hate stock photos

Why I hate stock photos

An image showing how books are photographed at StrangeBooks. There is a main camera pointing at a paperback book. A ring light is also shown.

We’ve all been there. You’re browsing through an online bookshop and you finally spot that book you’ve been hunting for. The listing shows a beautiful stock photo of a perfect copy and the description says “Very Good condition.” Sounds promising, right? So, you order it, eagerly await its arrival, and when it does, you tear it open only to find… a book that looks like it’s been through a war zone. Creased covers, folded back pages, and some mysterious stain on page 42. One person’s “Very Good” is clearly another’s “Barely Readable.” And the culprit? That deceptive stock photo.

Since setting up StrangeBooks in 2023, I’ve made it my mission to ensure this never happens to my customers. This is why I photograph every single book I sell. Flaws, quirks, and all. 

Why I photograph every book

At StrangeBooks, every listing features real photos of the actual book you’ll receive. If the cover is faded, you’ll see it. If its got a creased spine or there is a handwritten birthday message from Aunt Sally inside, it’ll be right there in the images.

I spend a lot of time photographing each and every book, because I believe that transparency is the foundation of trust in secondhand retail. You don’t buy secondhand clothes or a car without seeing them first, so why do we buy books so blindly?

Taking real photos isn’t just about showing imperfections, its about celebrating a books unique history. That creasing on the spine? It’s proof that someone loved this book before you. That inscription mentioned earlier from Aunt Sally? A glimpse into the books journey. By showing the actual book, I help buyers make informed decisions and avoid the disappointment of mismatched expectations.

I get it, I really do

I understand why some sellers use stock photos. Taking multiple photographs of each and every book takes time and effort, especially for small businesses like mine where there are a multitude of tasks to do and only myself to do them! Stock images are quick and easy and make every product look uniform and professional. But, here’s the problem. When a buyer receives a book that doesn’t match the pristine stock photo, they feel like they have been mislead, and would therefore be unlikely to shop with that seller again.

At StrangeBooks, I decided from the beginning, that I would rather spend the extra time snapping photographs then risk a disappointed customer.  I know that my photos may not be magazine worthy, but they are honest. A quick shot with my phone, under less than the best lighting, shows the books true condition far better than any stock image ever could. And the result? Happier customers who trust me enough to come back for more.

In an ideal world

I would love to see all sellers of secondhand books start to discourage the use of stock images. Just take those extra minutes to actually take the photographs. Your customers will appreciate it.

And to book buyers everywhere, demand better. If a listing uses stock photos, message the seller for real ones. Support shops like mine that prioritise authenticity. Lets raise the bar for how secondhand book shopping should be.

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Postage Price Increase

Postage price increase

We’ve got a quick update to share about postage prices at StrangeBooks. As of today, April 7th, we’ve had to make a small change to keep up with Royal Mail’s recent price increase. Here’s what you need to know!

Royal Mail has raised their postage prices, and since we only charge you the exact cost to send your books, our postage prices have increased accordingly, effective today, April 7th, 2025. For thin books (large letter size), the price remains £2.70. For most larger books (parcel size), the price has gone up from £3.39 to £3.45. For particularly heavy books, the price has increased from £6.29 to £6.80. We’ve always aimed to keep shipping as affordable as possible, and we’ll continue to pass on only what we’re charged.

At StrangeBooks, we’re still committed to bringing you the best secondhand reads at great prices. While some postage prices are going up, we’re keeping free delivery on all orders over £15 (in the UK only), so you can still enjoy your book hauls without extra shipping costs.

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Christmas Posting Dates

Christmas Posting Dates

Don’t Miss the Sleigh: Last Posting Dates for Christmas!

The festive season is upon us! The twinkling lights are going up, the mince pies are calling, and your Christmas reading list is growing (right?). But while we’re all wrapped up in the magic of the season, let’s not forget one very important detail: the last posting dates for Christmas delivery!

If you’re planning to treat yourself or a loved one to a bundle of books from StrangeBooks, or if you simply can’t imagine Christmas without a cosy novel in hand, here are the key dates to keep in mind:

 UK Delivery:

• Royal Mail Tracked 48: Friday, 20th December

International Delivery:

• USA & Canada (International Tracked): Friday, 13th December

(For exact details, always check the Royal Mail’s website or drop us a message – we’re here to help!)

Don’t Let Your Reading List Be the Grinch

There’s nothing quite like curling up with a book during the holidays, surrounded by the scent of pine, the glow of fairy lights, and perhaps a cheeky tin of chocolates. Whether you’re dreaming of a snowy romance, a festive thriller, or a classic tale, now is the time to order your Christmas reads. Don’t leave it too late, or you might find yourself bookless when the festivities begin – and we can’t let that happen!

Secondhand Books: The Sustainable Gift That Keeps Giving

Still debating whether a secondhand book makes the perfect present? Let us tell you why it’s not just a wonderful choice but a planet-friendly one too!

1. Sustainability at Its Best: Giving a secondhand book a new home reduces waste and gives something already loved another chance to bring joy. That’s the magic of reusing – it’s great for the Earth and your conscience.

2. Charm & Character: Secondhand books come with a story of their own, even before you open the first page. Maybe it’s a hand-written inscription, a dog-eared corner, or even a forgotten bookmark – they all add to the charm.

3. Uniquely Thoughtful: Choosing a pre-loved book means you’re giving something personal and unique. It shows you’ve put thought into finding the perfect read, whether it’s a treasured classic, a rare edition, or a quirky favourite.

So, why not make this Christmas both meaningful and mindful by gifting a book that’s as full of life as the person receiving it?

Make Someone’s Day

Books make the perfect gift. Fact. So, if you’ve got a bookworm (or budding bookworm) on your list, why not surprise them with one of our lovingly curated titles? We even have a collection of Christmas-themed reads that’ll add a sprinkle of magic to their day.

So, grab your wishlist (or your shopping list) and check it twice – the sleigh is almost ready to depart, and we wouldn’t want you to miss it!

Happy reading and merry ordering!

P.S. Still undecided? Drop us a message – we’re always happy to recommend the perfect read for you or your loved ones.

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New Website

new website

Dear Fellow Book Lovers,

I am thrilled to announce that our brand-new website is now live at www.strangebooks.uk! Since starting StrangeBooks last year, it has been an incredible journey, and your support has been the cornerstone of our growth.

At StrangeBooks, we are dedicated to bringing you the best in secondhand literature. Our mission has always been to provide you with a carefully curated selection of books that inspire, educate, and entertain. With the launch of our new website, we are taking this commitment to the next level.

Individually Photographed Books

One of the key features that sets StrangeBooks apart is our attention to detail. Every book for sale on our site is individually photographed, ensuring that you know exactly what you are getting. We believe that each book has its own unique story, not just in its content, but also in its physical form. By providing individual photos, we aim to capture the essence and condition of each book, so you can make informed choices and find the perfect addition to your collection.

New Blog Posts

We are excited to introduce a new section on our website dedicated to blog posts. Here, you will find a wealth of information, including book reviews, literary news, and other literary gems designed to enrich your reading experience. Our blog will feature contributions from a diverse range of voices, offering fresh perspectives and insights into the world of books. Whether you are looking for your next great read or simply want to stay updated on literary trends, our blog will be a valuable resource.

Fresh, Easy-to-Navigate Interface

Our new website boasts a fresh, easy-to-navigate interface that makes browsing and shopping a seamless experience. We understand that your time is valuable, and we have designed our site to ensure that you can find what you are looking for quickly and easily. With clear categories, intuitive search functions, and a streamlined checkout process, purchasing your next favorite book has never been easier.

Regular Stock Updates

We know how important it is to keep our inventory fresh and exciting. That’s why we will be regularly updating our stock with new additions. Whether you are a fan of classic literature, modern fiction, non-fiction, or niche genres, there will always be something new to discover at StrangeBooks. We are constantly on the lookout for unique and interesting books to add to our collection, and we are excited to share these finds with you.

Your love for books inspires me every day, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share this passion with such a wonderful community of readers. I look forward to continuing this journey with you and embarking on many more literary adventures together.

Thank you for your ongoing support. Visit the new site today at www.strangebooks.uk and explore all the exciting features we have to offer.

With gratitude,

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Postal Price Increase

postal price increase

Postal Price Increase

As Royal Mail has updated its pricing, we’ve adjusted our rates to align with these changes. For books that qualify as Large Letter size, the shipping cost will remain unchanged at £2.70. For larger and heavier books, shipping rates will now be either £3.39 or £6.59, based on the book’s size and weight. Rest assured, all orders will continue to be dispatched using Royal Mail 48 tracking for reliable and timely delivery.

To accommodate the shipping rate adjustment, we’ve updated our free delivery threshold in the UK to £15, up from £10. We believe this offers great value, ensuring you receive your favourite books without extra shipping costs on larger orders

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Free Delivery

free delivery

Free Delivery

Attention book lovers in the UK! We’ve got some exciting news to share with you. As of today, we’re thrilled to offer free delivery on all orders over £10. That’s right, no more pesky shipping fees to worry about – just more money to spend on the books you love!

At StrangeBooks, we’re passionate about connecting readers with their next great read. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of classic literature, a fan of page-turning thrillers, or just looking for something new to add to your bookshelf, we’ve got you covered.

We know that buying books online can sometimes be a hassle, especially when you have to factor in shipping costs. That’s why we’re excited to make things a little bit easier for our UK customers. With free delivery on orders over £10, you can now indulge in your reading addiction without worrying about the added expense.

So how does it work? Simply browse our collection of secondhand books, add your favorites to your cart, and check out as usual. As long as your order is over £10, we’ll automatically apply the free delivery option. It’s that easy!

And remember, shopping with us isn’t just a great way to save money – it’s also a more sustainable way to enjoy the books you love. By choosing secondhand books, you’re helping to reduce waste and support a more environmentally-friendly approach to reading.

So why wait? Browse our selection today and start building your own personal library. Whether you’re looking for a timeless classic or a contemporary bestseller, we’re confident that you’ll find something to love at our online bookshop.

As always, if you have any questions or need help with your order, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Fan Shaped Open Book
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Save the page!

Save the page!

How do you save your page?

When it comes to reading, everyone has their own preferences. Some people prefer to read on digital devices, while others love the feel of a physical book in their hands. Similarly, there are various ways to mark your place in a book. Dog-earing might be one option, but it’s worth considering the drawbacks before you make it your go-to method.

As mentioned earlier, dog-earing can damage the book over time. Even though it might not seem like a big deal, the small crease can weaken the paper, which could lead to tears or even a hole in the page. If you’re someone who loves to reread your favourite books, you might find that dog-eared pages become more fragile and harder to turn over time.

Another issue with dog-earing is that it’s imprecise. When you mark your place in a book, it’s usually because you want to come back to a specific line or paragraph later on. However, dog-earing only tells you the general area where you left off. If you have to put the book down for a while, you might forget which line you were on and have to flip through the pages to find your spot. This can be frustrating and time-consuming, especially if you’re reading a lengthy novel.

Aesthetically, dog-earing pages can also be a turn-off. If you’re someone who loves to collect books and display them on your bookshelf, dog-eared pages can detract from the overall look and feel of your collection. Plus, if you lend your books to others, they might not appreciate finding dog-eared pages.

Luckily, there are many other ways to mark your place in a book that don’t involve dog-earing. One popular option is using bookmarks, which can be found in all shapes and sizes, from traditional paper bookmarks to magnetic bookmarks and even handmade ones. Another option is to use sticky notes, which allow you to mark specific lines or paragraphs that you want to come back to. If you’re reading on a digital device, most e-readers come with a built-in bookmark feature that makes it easy to pick up where you left off.

In addition to being more precise and aesthetically pleasing, using a bookmark or other method to mark your place in a book can also help you become more engaged with the text. When you mark a specific line or paragraph, you’re more likely to remember it later on and engage with the book on a deeper level.

Of course, at the end of the day, how you choose to mark your place in a book is up to you. If you find that dog-earing works best for your reading style, there’s nothing wrong with that. But if you’re open to trying new methods, there are plenty of options out there that can make your reading experience even more enjoyable.

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Old damaged books.

Old damaged books

Old books are a treasure trove of knowledge, history, and stories that have been passed down for generations. But as much as we love them, they can sometimes become damaged, broken, or can fall apart. This can be a difficult situation for book lovers, as we don’t want to simply throw them away, but we also don’t know what to do with them. In this post, we’ll explore some options for what to do with old books that are broken and falling apart.

  1. Repair and Restore

One option for old books that are falling apart is to repair and restore them. There are many tutorials and online resources available that can guide you through the process of repairing old books. This can include reattaching loose pages, resewing bindings, or even replacing covers. If you’re not confident in your ability to repair the books yourself, you can also look for a professional book binder or restorer who can do the work for you.

  1. Preserve and Protect

Another option for old books that are falling apart is to preserve and protect them. This can involve using archival quality storage materials such as acid-free boxes or Mylar sleeves to protect the books from further damage. It can also involve storing the books in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can cause the pages to yellow and deteriorate over time. By taking steps to preserve and protect the books, you can help ensure that they remain intact for future generations to enjoy.

  1. Donate to an Archive or Museum

If you have old books that are historically significant or have cultural value, you may want to consider donating them to an archive or museum. These organisations have the resources and expertise to properly store and preserve old books, and can also make them available to researchers and scholars for study and research. Contact your local archive or museum to find out if they accept book donations and what their guidelines are.

  1. Create Art or Crafts

If you’re feeling creative, you can also repurpose old books that are falling apart into art or crafts. This can include creating collages or mixed media pieces, using the pages to create origami or paper flowers, or even using the covers to create book-themed jewellery. There are countless possibilities for repurposing old books into something beautiful and unique.

  1. Recycle

Finally, if you have old books that are beyond repair or restoration, you can consider recycling them. Many areas have recycling programs that accept paper products, including books. You can also look for specialised book recycling programs, which may be able to use the paper to create new products such as insulation or paper pulp. By recycling your old books, you can help reduce waste and give the paper a second life.

In conclusion, there are many options for what to do with old books that are broken and falling apart. From repairing and restoring them, to preserving and protecting them, to repurposing them into art or crafts, or even recycling them, there are plenty of ways to give new life to old books. Whatever you choose to do, remember that these books are not just objects, but a part of our shared cultural heritage, and it’s important to treat them with care and respect.

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The Future of Secondhand Book Selling

Future of secondhand book selling

Secondhand book selling has always been a niche market, with a loyal customer base of book lovers who appreciate the value of used books. In recent years, however, the market for secondhand books has grown significantly, thanks in part to the rise of online marketplaces and the growing awareness of the environmental benefits of buying used.

So, what does the future hold for secondhand book selling? Here are some trends to keep an eye on:

  1. Online marketplaces will continue to dominate.

Online marketplaces such as Amazon, eBay, and AbeBooks and of course, StrangeBooks, have made it easier than ever for buyers to find and purchase used books from anywhere in the world. These platforms provide a wide range of books, competitive pricing, and convenience, which is why they are so popular among book buyers.

For secondhand book sellers, online marketplaces offer a global audience, easy access to buyers, and a level playing field for small and large sellers alike. As online shopping continues to grow, we can expect to see more secondhand book sellers turn to online marketplaces to reach a wider audience.

  1. Sustainability will become more important.

As consumers become more aware of the impact their purchases have on the environment, they are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint. Buying secondhand books is one way to do this, as it reduces the demand for new books and keeps books out of landfills.

Secondhand book sellers can capitalise on this trend by promoting the sustainability benefits of buying used books. By highlighting the environmental impact of their business, they can attract eco-conscious buyers and build a loyal customer base.

  1. Personalization will be key.

As the secondhand book market becomes more competitive, sellers will need to find ways to stand out from the crowd. One way to do this is by offering personalised recommendations and services.

For example, sellers can create curated collections of books based on a customer’s interests or provide personalised book recommendations based on a customer’s purchase history. By offering personalised services, sellers can build strong relationships with their customers and create a unique selling proposition.

  1. Technology will play a bigger role.

Technology is already changing the way we buy and sell books, and this trend is set to continue. For example, artificial intelligence can be used to improve book recommendations and automate inventory management, while virtual reality can be used to create immersive book-buying experiences.

While technology can make secondhand book selling more efficient and effective, it’s important not to lose sight of the personal touch that makes secondhand book selling so special. The key is to use technology to enhance the buying experience, not replace it.

In conclusion, the future of secondhand book selling looks bright. As more consumers embrace the environmental and economic benefits of buying used books, the demand for secondhand books is only set to grow. By staying on top of the latest trends and technologies, secondhand book sellers can continue to thrive and provide book lovers with the books they love.