In my early teens I loved reading, and my parents bought a book shop. 
It was called "CD Power / Book Power".
The shop was split down the middle, half music and half books.

(When I left school after year 10 I worked here full time almost 5 years, by that time dad had ditched the books.)

Dad used to let me sit behind the counter and read anything I wanted, but I had to be very careful not to open the books too far or I would crease the spine. They had to look brand new when I finished, otherwise I'd be in trouble and couldn't read any more.

It has taken me a looong time to lose this mental fixation about books having to look perfect and be pristine. Having kids helped.

Now I fold corners and never read a book without a pencil in my pockets. Underlining, circling, writing notes.

I think a well thumbed book with your own personality imprinted is a beautiful thing.

Would you rather your parents bestowed you brand new books or books with notes and highlights?