What Are The Pros And Cons Of Dog-Ear A Book For Novel Readers?

Dog-earing a book is something I’ve done for years, and it’s a habit I can’t shake. The biggest pro is convenience—no need to carry a bookmark or worry about losing it. It’s quick, easy, and always there when I need to mark my spot. Plus, there’s something personal about seeing those folded corners in a well-loved book. It feels like a little piece of my journey with the story.

On the flip side, I’ve noticed it can damage the pages over time, especially with thinner paper. The corners get worn, and sometimes the fold becomes permanent, which can be annoying if I want to lend the book to someone. It’s also not the most elegant solution—some people find it disrespectful to the book itself. But for me, it’s a small price to pay for the practicality and nostalgia it brings.

Dog-earing a book is a topic that sparks debate among readers, and I’ve seen both sides of it. One of the biggest advantages is its simplicity. You don’t need any extra tools—just fold the corner and you’re done. It’s especially handy when you’re reading in a hurry or don’t have a bookmark nearby. I also like how it creates a visual history of where I’ve been in the book. Flipping through and seeing those folded corners feels like revisiting moments in the story.

However, there are downsides. Over time, dog-earing can weaken the pages, especially in older or more delicate books. I’ve had a few where the corners tore off completely, which was frustrating. It’s also not the most aesthetically pleasing method. Some readers, including myself at times, feel it’s a bit careless, especially with books I want to keep in good condition.

Another point to consider is resale or sharing. If you plan to sell or lend the book, dog-earing can reduce its value or make it less appealing to others. I’ve had friends return books with folded corners, and while I didn’t mind, I know others who’d be bothered by it. Ultimately, it’s a personal choice, but it’s worth weighing the practicality against the potential damage.

As someone who reads a lot, I’ve thought a lot about dog-earing books. The main benefit is how effortless it is. No need to hunt for a bookmark or remember where I left off—just fold the corner and move on. It’s especially useful when I’m reading multiple books at once or in places where I don’t have access to bookmarks. I also find it adds a personal touch to my books, like a little reminder of where I paused in the story.

But there are definite drawbacks. Dog-earing can damage the pages, especially in books with thin or fragile paper. I’ve had some where the folded corners started to tear or became so creased they were hard to flatten out. It’s also not the most respectful way to treat a book, especially if it’s a special edition or something I plan to keep for a long time.

Another issue is how it looks. While I don’t mind it in my own books, I’d never dog-ear a borrowed book or one I plan to sell. It’s a small thing, but it can make a big difference in how the book is perceived. Overall, I think it’s a matter of personal preference, but it’s worth considering the long-term effects on your books.