16.5.12

thebookdepository experience!

I am currently writing this entry this third of May, 2012. It's a bright and sunny thursday afternoon. In all my frustrations of getting myself a copy of a much hyped-up book, I just want to with you all my journey.

Before I proceed though, I would want to apologize about a cancelled book giveaway. I only had no one three participants even after extending the date for entries. I shall hold another giveaway to improve more reader participation and hopefully, a bigger giveaway shall be in store.


**UNNECESSARY BLABBER STARTS HERE (Skip on to the next heading to proceed with the review proper)**


I was never a fan of hyped-up books even before. They always turn out to be huge disappointments for me (*coughs twilight here*) so I swore to myself to buy books I really like and not what all the others like. This goes the same with the Hunger Games Series by Suzanne Collins. I didn't even bother reading the synopsis as I thought it would be just another book craze. And I still resisted my urge even when most people didn't really give it horrible reviews. I almost got myself a boxed set when I saw one at National Bookstore as it turned out to be a huge bargain. However, I still resisted. I can't spend that much on a trilogy I might end up not liking. So I just dashed out of the store.

A year later people talked about the film adaptation and some even said it was better than the book. "Pfft. People and pop culture," I thought. I finally got someone to tell me a bit about the book. Coming from someone who has never read any YA dystopian books in her entire life, the plot sounded interesting to me. For a second there I thought of watching the film the following day. But I decided to grab the book first and that time I was finally decided. But then all bookstores were out of stock! Such a shame. In my desperation, I headed over to www.bookdepository.co.uk and bought myself The Hunger Games using my extra paypal funds.






I bought the book April 3, 2012 and was dispatched from their warehouse April 5, 2012. It was stated in their website that books to be shipped here in the philippines will take about 10 days shipping time. In two days, my order will be exactly a month old and it still hasn't gotten to my doorstep today, May 3, 2012.

A month has passed since the book was dispatched and I cannot tolerate the wait any longer. My guts were itching to read one and I'm not to buy those hardbound copies (I can be a cheapskate when it comes to books) until I accidentally saw a paperback copy hidden beneath the hardcover editions of Hunger Games in Fully Booked Trinoma. I know that the book I ordered online could either be lost or still in transit, and if it is indeed in transit, then I might end up having 2 copies of The Hunger Games. But I said to myself that I don't care anymore as I really thought the book was lost.

May 12, 2012 and the book still hasn't arrived. Although I wasn't that much disappointed anymore since I've just finished my Hunger Games, the one I bought from fully booked. I was furious to the point that I asked for a refund, which they did. And they paid me back in full. Hey don't slap me, I just thought that the book was lost.

Yesterday, May 15, 2012 I was shocked after our house helper informed me that there was a package for me. And I wasn't wrong, it is indeed The Hunger Games I have been waiting for more than a month now. And now, I have 2 copies of Hunger Games residing on my shelf.

Of course I'm not a selfish opportunistic bastard. I immediately contacted thebookdepository (TBD to be short) to give me instructions on how I can pay them back the refund I asked for, since the book actually arrived. And now, my heart is at peace.

**UNNECESSARY BLABBER ENDS HERE**


So here's my verdict. As a first timer, I have to say that TBD is legit. Ordered the book April 3, it was dispatched April 5, arrived in the Phillipines May 9, and was shipped here at my house (no charge) May 15. I guess the waiting partly is to be blamed on the postal office.



This is how it looked like when it appeared on my doorstep. Neatly packaged with adequate protection.



Inspected the book and I'm pleased with the condition of it. It was in perfect condition, however, my camera failed to pick it up.

What I liked about TBD is that they have amazing selections of books. But for the price, well, I would have to admit can be a few cents expensive compared to amazon or even the bookstores we have here in the Philippines. However, they have occasional sales and when they do, expect the prices to drop. Also, if you pre-order books, you can get them at a lower price. I almost pre-ordered Insurgent by Vernoica Roth since I only had to pay 200+ pesos for that when it could cost me twice the price if I pre-ordered mine here in the Philippines. I know, I know, it's ridiculous. But it's legit. The reason why I didn't pre-order Insurgent online is that I didn't like the cover of the paperback they were pre-selling (yes, I'm OC like that).

Going past thru the books and service, I would have to salute TBD for their excellent customer service. I was blown away at how fast they respond to my queries and pretty much just surprised to that they actually replied.

But of course, the main gripe would always have to be the waiting. I was pretty jealous that other people get their packages in as short as two weeks. It was my first time experiencing such a long wait. This is the main reason why I'm not sure if I'm going to order from TBD again. Not to say that I won't, but if there would be books I know is available here, I would skip on using TBD. Although TBD is very useful when looking for hard-to-find books. I would definitely buy again from them, I'm just waiting on the next sale.

And if you're wondering, I'm selling this particular copy of hunger games if you guys might be interested :D It's brand new and in excellent condition. I also offer free shipping :) Just message me if interested or comment on this post :)

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