It's never okay to read a book.

It's a no for me. It's like getting a present for someone and using it before you give it to them. I dont think that's OK. I wouldn't do it with any other thing, why should I do it with a book?

I think there are other, better ways to vet the content of the book if that's what you're trying to do

No. You’ll mess up the pages. The pages must be in pristine condition. Virgen book.

Hmm... Its pretty obvious when a book is used. So long as the gift is a 'used book' and not acting like its a new book its ok - if not, then it does feel a bit odd.

I probably wouldn't read it but if I really feel like I need to, I'd find another book to do so.

To read that book is good as I would not want to give something that might be boring or bad. But it should not be the exact same copy that I will give away. Maybe read that anyway if I could make sure it keeps its pristine look and feel and doesn't get a trace of preloved, second hand. Though I tend to keep it really in its untouched wrapper.

Idk, I think you would know more about this than I would, but I figure any gift, used or not, should be better than no gift, so still a plus. On the other hand, though, if it's obvious you read it (like all the pages are slightly separated - that happens whenever I read a book), it might seem kinda tacky. So idk. And also what Sen said, they might enjoy opening a brand new book. And when you read a book, it leaves your energy imprint on it. They might prefer their book's energy to be neutral.

Hm, it smacks of cheapness or some such...I don't know what 'OK' means in this context though...my instincts say no... I mean, if the gift were a jacket or a piece of jewelry would people would intuitively think it at least strange to wear it around first...also I think anybody who would enjoy a book as a gift would enjoy that new book sensation of cracking it open for the very first time, and why rob them of that

Sure, just don't lick or crease the pages before you do.