$26 for a paperback book is still a bargain for the information in it. I imagine that most other paperbacks nowadays cost much more, especially in today's economy. I would probably opt for the Hard cover though as it would last longer.
This kind of dates me, but I remember when many paperbacks were in the .50-1.00 range! Imagine, back then you could get a candy bar, soda pop and a paperback for under a dollar!