Welcome to A Novel Idea Bookstore

Collecting: Book Condition Grading Game

Knowledgeable book dealers and collectors tend to use the following guide when describing the condition of books:

Fine	Very, very minor signs of use, no discernible wear or rubbing, no fading of the spine, no dog-eared page corners. May lack the "crispness" of a new book, but otherwise should be like new.
Very Good	A little more evidence of use than a fine copy. Minor rubbing at book extremities. No foxing.
Good	Intact but shows some wear. Minor chipping, lightly soiled. May have previous owner's signature.
Fair	Shows much use and wear and has multiple problems and defects. Damp stain, foxing, hinges cracked, tattering. Not a desirable copy.
Poor	Shows excessive wear. Only useful for content.

Play the Game!

The following is meant as entertainment--and to provide a sense of the factors we consider when buying books. Note that this is not intended as an accurate measure by which to grade your books.

My Book is: HARDCOVER or PAPERBACK

Our Gift Certificates are available for any amount, never expire and are good on all books & merchandise in our store. All Gift Certificates are written by hand. Gift Certificates of $25 or higher value come in a beautiful sleeve of handmade paper embedded with wildflower seeds, which can be planted in a sunny spot.

"If you have a library and a garden,
you have everything you need." ~ Cicero

We are happy to send Gift Certificates directly to all the people on your list. To order, please call (402) 475-8663, email us or visit our Gifts for Book Lovers page.

Fine

Very Good

Good

Fair

Poor