Penguin Popular Classics

We were wandering around the book stores on Charing Cross Road on Saturday, and stumbled across a wonderful selection of the Penguin Popular Classics.

Turns out they've been available since January, but had somehow escaped our notice till now.

They've got cheapo uncoated covers, no footnotes, and no introductions; but they're just £2 each, which is simply fantastic. How else can you get so much pleasure for so little money?

The utilitarian cover design is wonderful, and they make a great set when they're all together, really reminiscent of the early days of Penguin. The titles are heavily weighted in favour of the big hitters (Austen, Dickens and Shakespeare), but there are a stack of others to choose from too.

Comments

[Alex]

Not only are they are a bargain, they are also made of almost 100% recycled material (hence the 'cheapo' feel). Just don't leave them in an even slightly damp atmosphere, they crinkle easily.

[Adam]

I love this blog.

I am really, really interested in book design and I thought I was just a freak but Im so happy I found it. I love what you did at the V&A.

When I saw these in Borders in Norwich I also thought they were excellent. Im 16 and you would, no way, get me reading a classic normally (other than Orwell, of course) but these really inspired me and I read Sherlock Holmes, Wuthering Heights and Tale of Two Cities as a result.

These basically changed my whole outlook on classic literature.

[Eric]

What are the dimensions of these books?
Do the heights vary or are the all the same, for the most part?

I have a book case and think they'd look great, but want them to fit.

[Alistair Hall]

Hey there

Thanks for the comment.

The books are 111mm wide by 180mm high - spine thicknesses vary.

All the best

~ Alistair ~

[Emma]

Does anybody know where i can get a full list of these books? I want a printable list.

Am using them as favours for my wedding so i'd like to be able to match people up to books if at all possible - the list would be sooo helpul.

Thanks!