Penguin Books Reviews 

I recently purchased a Vintage Classics edition of Beloved and found a serious printing fault: a “VC sustainability” page had been inserted into the final section of the novel, apparently replacing part of the text. As a result, I was unable to finish the book.

I contacted Penguin Random House and provided photographic evidence. While they acknowledged that production faults can occur, I was repeatedly directed to return the book to the retailer rather than having the issue resolved directly by the publisher.

I appreciate that retailers can handle exchanges, but in this case the defect affected the integrity of the text itself. Being unable to complete the novel was frustrating enough; being asked to resolve it elsewhere added to that inconvenience.

Disappointing experience overall—both in terms of quality control and customer service response.

I have sent this as an email to your customer service twice and receive no reply, perhaps I will get one here.

In relation to the recent release Chimera & Other Thrillers by Stephen Gallagher. How do you obtain a direct download of this release? All the stores listed on your website are streaming services and you can only access your purchase via an account with their website. If I am paying the full price for something I expect to have a digital file that I can backup and access whenever I want. Otherwise there is no ownership, the streaming service can lose the rights to host the release and then you can't access it either, even though you've paid for it.

The Saltpath - a book of lies

bought Taleb Incerto collection, good package and design, thank you

Just read James O'Brien's recent title (see Below). Overall its a relatively easy read and puts forward a persuasive argument based on fact and personal experience. Word of warning however is that this book is an attack by the left on the right (politically speaking). Hence the book is heavily skewed towards the misdemeanours of conservative and right of centre actors apart from the one chapter devoted to Corbyn. Consequently the book is only partially finished as I am assuming O'Brien is finalising chapters on Blair (Supreme Court, Human Rights Act, Education and Immigration explosion, Iraq war) in addition to Brown's somewhat lamentable attempt at being PM. This doesn't detract from the book, simply reinforces the left-wing bias which is typical of James O'Brien. The book reviewers are not exactly leaders in their field.

Mansfield Park, Vintage Classics edition. Advertised as something special and is not cheap. The hard cover is plastic coated and not a pleasure to hold and the paper is poor quality. Everyman cheaper and better quality.

Penguin Canada purchase. Book had 30 pages out of order with missing pages. I complained to Penguin Canada. They sent a replacement. HAD SAME MISPRINTS. Clearly they don’t care about customer service.

Penguin Books UK consistently delivers high-quality literature across genres, blending timeless classics with bold new voices. Their commitment to accessibility, thoughtful design, and cultural impact makes them a trusted name for readers and educators alike. A reliable publisher that enriches the literary landscape.

I just bought a Penguin book. I am a huge book lover and believe that they should be revered, especially when the subject matter is of some importance to how we live our lives. However, it would seem that Penguin have become performative in how they print their books. Its cover is flimsy and cheap – the kind that will fray upon reading the first chapter. The pages are cheap too, so if I highlight any passages that I find particularly meaningful or enlightening, the highlighter is likely to seep through to the other side. I bought the original copy from Amazon and it was already frayed on arrival from the journey. I presumed that they bought in the cheap looking ones to save money. So, I ordered the book from my local independent book shop (necessitating a lengthy return journey) believing they would have access to quality versions. The book is not available in hardback and I want to access it often so Kindle doesn’t suit on this occasion. But, nope, the quality is just as poor. Profit over quality seems to be Penguin’s aim. What a huge shame. This is a book I shall speed through rather than luxuriate in. Does everything have to be about the bottom line? Where is their passion in their product?

These books were found at a car sale but brought back great memories of being a child and getting a Penguin each year on our birthdays. Have so many now

Placed an order for 12 books before noon and paid for tracked next day delivery. A week later and I have received nothing. They won't answer any emails, no phone number to contact. All the books were in stock. The courier won't get involved, they are aware of the order but say that they are still expecting it from the supplier (shop.penguin.co.uk)

Order was not delivered. Book value = 287 British pounds. After the return, re-shipment was offered and then refused, a case was opened on Ebay. I never had a notification in my mailbox. This is dubious seller behavior

I normally like Penguin books, but I am not happy with my lastest purchase "When we were birds". It is not written in English! The writer is from Trinidad, it probably is a local form derived from English. But it should have been mentioned on the cover, because the child-like language it is so distracting I am going to throw the book away in frustration.

I sent the email test below on 1st April regarding an error in knitting pattern which being a competent knitter was able to rip down and solve the error. My issue was that NO REPLY from Penguin via TBS-LTD email.
Guess not interested in feedback

Sent: Fri, 1 Apr 2022 at 15:11
Subject: The Knitting Book ERROR !
Hi

I am a competent knitter however a bit less than happy having had to rip out a large part of the pattern on page 289 cute hooded baby jacket for my grandson.
The pattern appears /IS wrong !

Please see where scissors point

Cast on 74 up to 85 stitches
You then go to shape sleeve cast on 36 and following row a further 36 HOWEVER after completing one side to pick up the 27 for back neck left incorrect stitches on left needle.
The total should be 165 based on the figures of 85+36+36 but as you will see this only add up to 157 = 8 stitches short. 😡😡

Please clarify

Regards
Michelle Macmillan
Scotland

not sure how these guys dont have more reviews, but the publishers are excellent. helped me contract some work for them and they are an easy to deal with bunch.

Happily be the first to say what wonderful books you produce.

Thank you for your contribution to literature for such a long time