1. Production is an art
A paper book is not just a bunch of pages. It is:
high-quality paper,
high-quality binding,
printing that should be smooth and beautiful,
sometimes — illustrations that require the work of an artist.
All this adds up to the final price, and there is no magic here — only labor and materials.
2. Logistics and storage
Books need to be delivered, stored in warehouses and stores. Warehouse staff, transport, shelves in stores — all this adds to the cost. Yes, even if the book “lies on the shelf” and seems innocent.
3. Author's royalties
Any paper book is the result of the author's work. They invest years of research, thought and creativity, and then get a share of the profits. So the price of a book reflects human labor, not just paper and ink.
4. Comparison with e-books
An e-book is indeed cheaper: no printing, no shipping, no storage. But a paper book is an experience: the smell of the pages, the feeling of weight, the ability to turn the pages, write notes in the margins and give to others. This is physical magic that cannot be digitized.
5. Collector's value
Some books are expensive because they are rare, beautiful, with author's signatures or unique illustrations. It is almost an investment, not just reading.
Conclusion: paper books are expensive because behind every page there is labor, talent, logistics and a little magic. And yes, sometimes this price is worth it - especially when the book becomes your favorite companion for many years.