One other potential issue – book clubs almost always have their own print run in a format differing from what you’ll see in the bookstore. Not usually a big deal, they should still be labeled as annotated, abridged, or edited (if they have been). It’s only a concern if you want to resell the book…used book sellers often won’t accept book club editions.

I have been thinking about joining the SciAm Book Club.  However, I have been burned before for not understanding the fine print of such things.  I have read over the membership agreement though from SciAm and it seems pretty straightforward.  Do any of you know anything good or bad about their book club program?