I contain multiples: why we can't stop buying different copies of the same book

But this one has exclusive end papers. . .

Your TBR pile has taken over the house. You've instigated a book-buying ban. And yet you just can't stop yourself from picking up that special edition of a book you've already read. . . From sprayed edges, new illustrations, bonus chapters and executive hardback reissues to hunting down out-of-print rarities: we asked readers what keeps them coming back for more. 

It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a Bookstagrammer in possession of good taste, must be in want of another copy of Pride and Prejudice

I collect Pride and Prejudice editions because out of all the classics, it's always been a firm favourite. Elizabeth Bennett and Mr Darcy are up there in my top literary characters, so when I see a new edition, I have to snap it up!
@booksandlovelythings


'Einstein got it right when he wrote E(enjoyment)= m(multiple)c(copies) squared'

If you're worried black holes are too difficult to understand in one medium, why not try two? You can have an audiobook for when you're out and about, you can have a hardback for cosy at-home reading, or you could even treat yourself to the most luxurious of reading experiences by going in-ear while reading the physical book.
Will, Senior Digital Marketing Executive at Pan Macmillan
Will's two editions


Olivie Blake, queen of spredges

If I really enjoy a specific book or author and they have multiple copies of their books, I try to collect them all. They look gorgeous on a shelf and support the author in their work! I think collecting books is a separate hobby for myself, as it is for many others.
@booklybabe


Bonus features

I've been a bit of a B.S. Johnson obsessive since university and keep an eye out for old editions, out-of-print titles and rarities. I've got two copies of Albert Angelo, his wildly innovative 1964 novel. It's partly about the romantic failings of a supply teacher, partly a ferociously funny interrogation of the novel form – perfect for literary readers, especially any fans of Joyce, Beckett, or contemporary experimental writers like Max Porter. I won't spoil it, but there's a certain unusual aspect to the physical structure of Albert Angelo print editions that made multiple versions a must – not a chance I'll stop at two!
Kieran, Metadata Executive at Pan Macmillan
Kieran's B S Johnson collection


Celebrating favourites

What draws me to Shelley Parker Chan’s writing is their ability to draw me in immediately as a reader. When I first picked up She Who Became the Sun, it was the combination of historical retelling meets high fantasy that struck me – I love a detailed and well-researched East Asian mythological tale, especially from Chinese history. So my journey of collecting multiple copies began!
@the_pundlit


Curiouser and curiouser. . .

When it comes to a classic, there is no such thing as too many editions. I particularly love my Salvador Dali illustrated Alice's Adventures in Wonderland which is a bit special and out of this world. Having different versions is aesthetically satisfying and a good excuse to read your favourites over and over again.
Melissa, Editorial Assistant, Campbell Books
Melissa's collection


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