In its third survey on the book-buying habits of Americans, the advertising firm Spier NY asked readers what factors motivated them to buy a book. Readers could choose more than one answer; below are the top eight answers.

Reason % of respondents
Source: Spier NY. Based on responses from 813 book readers.
1. Friend's recommendation 49%
2. Familiarity with author 45
3. Description on jacket 32
4. Reviews 22
5. Advertisement 21
6. Place on bestsellers list 17
7. Reading group pick 16
8. Cover design 12