I’ve never read a book in Large Print (LP). I assumed the book would be 700 pages, bigger, and harder to carry around. It wasn’t until we decided to rearrange our collections on the 2nd fl. of the Library and the Large Print books moved near the historic Bridgens map that I became more familiar with the collection. When a member suggested the book Lessons in Chemistry, I decided to try the large print version so we could keep the standard version available for others to check out (we also carry the eAudiobook).
Lessons in Chemistry set in the 1950's, follows chemist Elizabeth Zott who dreams of becoming a scientist. She is challenged at every step until she uses an opportunity to host a cooking show “Supper at Six” to educate and empower others. Zott calls salt “sodium chloride” and elaborates on the scientific processes that occur when browning meat all while raising her daughter as a single mom.
Not only is this an excellent story, combining fiction with science and cooking, but my eyes also greatly appreciated the reading experience. The size of the book was no bigger than an average fiction book despite the larger font size. This is accomplished by using a thinner but higher-quality paper and laying out the text to cover more of the page. A regular print book uses 10-12 pt. lettering while LP generally has 16-18 pt. type. By using thinner but higher quality paper and laying out the text to maximize the use of white space, publishers have kept the size of the books the same if not smaller than a regular print-size book. There’s really no difference between the two versions.
And why would one choose to read an LP version? Large print books benefit not only those who have historically favored these books, like seniors and those with visual impairment, but it has also proven to limit eye strain and help readers experiencing digital eye fatigue. Some studies have shown that large print improves letter and word recognition, aiding reading comprehension and increasing feelings of confidence and satisfaction when reading. That makes it a perfect literacy resource for reluctant readers, beginners, and ESL/ELL students.
So give your eyes a break from your digital devices and check out a Large Print book on your next visit. Like me, you might just become a new fan!
