I used to believe damaging or marking books in any way should be punished by beating and social ostracism. A few months ago, while reading "Towers of Midnight", I was overcome by a Frank Herbert Moment, realized that <B>I bought the book and as long as it was not damaging the intent or clarity of the text, highlighting, underlining and writing in the margins was completely allowed. I have to thank "Wheel of Time" for having so much going on that it inspired me to start marking my pages up - otherwise, I couldn't think about half the crazy theories I do. =D

If the book is thought provoking, then I will be inspired to take notes, anyway, so why not just make a note for myself? This makes me excited to get a Nook or a similar e-book device since I could type directly on to the page.