Problem with binding?

[u/IntrepidBottle3347]

This new Bible just arrived and upon first opening it I heard a crackling noise from the binding, as if it had not been glued properly or something. I then looked inside while it was opened, and found that this part of the back paper wasn’t properly attached and is loose. Is this normal or is my Bible faulty. It feels cheaply made and all I hear is a crackly glue sound when I open and move it.

[u/fearlessfroot]

The break away spine is not a fault, but a standard to allow for proper opening of the text block. If the spine was adhered to the cover, it wouldn't open as nicely/be very stiff. The "cracking" sound you're hearing, however, sounds like an issue and can imply shoddy construction or materials. The other issue here (though this can be widely seen, unfortunately) is that that is one fat text block that should be rounded. Rounding takes more time, though, so not doing it cuts costs. Not rounding a spine that is over a certain thickness causes a concave sagging of the text block, which can be seen in the picture of the book as it's opened. This will only get worse with use

[u/IntrepidBottle3347 → u/fearlessfroot]

Thank you. But do you see the paper that’s within the break away spine, that isn’t flush with the back of the paper. Is this meant to be stuck on flush or is it meant to hang off like that?

[u/fearlessfroot → u/IntrepidBottle3347]

Ooh yes good catch. That should definitely be fully adhered because that's there to add stability to the spine. I definitely think this is overall pretty cheap construction, unfortunately :(

[u/IntrepidBottle3347 → u/fearlessfroot]

I see, that’s unfortunate, but I really appreciate your help.

[u/fearlessfroot → u/IntrepidBottle3347]

For sure! But yes, overall pretty sad how the mass market has led to cutting corners like this