A paperback, also known as a softcover or softback, is a type of book characterized by a thick paper or paperboard cover, and often glued together at the spine rather than sewn or stapled. The pages are usually made of paperboard or heavy paper, and the cover is typically less expensive than a hardcover. Paperbacks are often smaller and more portable than hardcover books, making them a popular choice for readers who want to carry a book with them on the go.