I have a book that I have read that seems to be on several wishlists. The problem is that it is a used book and whoever had it before me apparently held the cover and pages snugly between thumbs and forefingers while reading, thereby making ripples at the middle edge of cover and first 25 pages or so. I know that it is not water damage because I can literally tell where their thumbs and forefingers sat. This did not bother me, but I am hesitant to post it because of this. Otherwise, there are no tears, writing or other damages. What would you do- post it or trade it at used bookstore?

I would post it, but if you are uncomfortable with posting it you could offer it as a freebie with anither order from your shelf at the book bazaar.

If it meets site guidelines, I'd post it. Nothing in your post indicates something that would make it unpostable to me. Its hard to tell without seeing the book. If you are really worried someone will consider it water damage you can always post it and then give the person the opportunity to turn down the book. Once it is accepted PM them about the pinched pages, saying that the book is postable, but wanted to explain the unusual rippling in case they were gifting it. If they do not want it, you will cancel the transaction so that they do not lose their place in WL line. If the first person does not want it, you will not be able to repost it right away because it will keep going back to the same person.

IMHO if it postable, just post it and send it. If they think its water damaged when they get it, you can discuss it at that time.

Can you really be sure it isn't water damage?  That sounds exactly like what happens when I read a book with damp hands in the tub or pool.  Since, you aren't the one who caused the irregularity, I would be hesitant to post it.

Can you bury it under a pile of heavy books for a few days and see if the pages wont lay flat again?

I appreciate the answers. I guess after seeing Danielle's reply that it really made me think about if that is what has happened. I am now feeling too concerned to post it. The condition doesn't bother me but I know that not all feel that way and I want to be sure to stay within the guidelines. I will study on it and maybe offer it as a freebie or take it to used book store. Thanks for your replies.

I had a WL book that I bought at a UBS. You could see where someone had used those little clip on page markers. From the side it looked like wavy water dmg.  But when you read the book you could see the little indentations from a clip on page marker. 

I posted in the bazaar and in my siggy what book it was and about the page marker indents.  Someone pm'd me quickly and I posted it right to them. 

Look closely and see if there's any signs of water dmg to be sure though. 

What book is it, btw?

Mary- the book is "Plain and Fancy" by Wanda Brunstetter

Pat, I would be interested in getting that book from you, damage or no damage...it is readable...sent you a PM.

Christy