Quote:
Originally Posted by HarryT
What do we learn from these data? Have paperbacks risen or fallen in price in real terms?
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Depends on your starting point.
If you start from 1960s to early 1970s, then paperbacks have risen significantly in real terms. They should cost us around $1.75 today but are priced at $7.99 and above.
From the early 1980s prices have increased close to inflation and are relatively inexpensive. Factor in the 30-40% discounts and paperbacks are undervalued. I don't remember such large discounts back in the 70s.
Prices increased suddenly late 70s to early 80s and while inflation was high it doesnt account for all the added increases. Some suggestions have been posted as to why.
For the senior population books will seem expensive. The younger generation (say age 50 and under) books will appear reasonably priced. Considering inflation has been low these last few years this is even more apparent.