Size does matter

More questions.

First of all, I start with the premise "size does matter", and in this, am
looking for the best compromise.

As I collate and list the stories to go into the forthcoming book (sounds
pretentious, doesn't it?) I find I must first decide on the page size,
thence type size.

I have in mind people in the same or similar situation to myself, needing
as much help as may be available in reading hard print.

Looking at the available print options, I need to choose a size which will
be freely available worldwide via the booksellers' distribution systems,
and which will also best serve the reader .

It seems that I am limited to two book sizes, small and smaller, i.e 6inch
x 9 inch (15x23 cm)(Royal) and Pocket Size which is 4.5 inch x 7inch
(11x18cm). Both of these sizes are standard.

**Dalin**...

I prefer the smaller size too. Much easier to hold and also they fit
in a purse or pocket better.

If I go for the smaller paper back size, then the typeface will needs be
smaller, otherwise there will be very little on each page, and there will
need to be more pages. If I go for the larger size, then I can have the
typeface that bit bigger and so make it easier on the eye, and also that
bit more easy for people like me to hold. This is all very technical, and I
must master it, and in doing so, I might well find other options, but, in
simple, my question is this - small or larger?

Bearing in mind that the biggest single cost is in the binding, which is
pretty much the same regardless, the marginal difference will be in the
number of pages ( 'X' pence or cents per page) and the carriage costs.

My overbearing consideration is making the thing good value for money. I am
confident that I can have the reader smile - laugh even, perhaps weep, but
mostly empathise with the subjects; all in all, I promise a thoroughly good
read.

I would appreciate your observations in this.

Thank you very much.

NHunkele...

I prefer the 'pocket book' size book but I have passed up buying a
couple because the print was too small for comfortable reading. I
guess small size book and a readable type size. :)
Norma
Norma

Jean B....

Larger, I think. I think those books are more comfortable and
easier to keep open.

Does larger translate into fewer pages? Perhaps larger print?

Jane Benn...

That would be my vote, too.

And larger print would be an advantage, although I realize there's a cost
involved in that, which may make it impractical.