Your book will have to already be “flat” when it’s opened, in order for this tablet stand to hold it. In other words, a ringed binder will work. A hardback cookbook will not. A hardback will fall out; a notebook with rings will stand up, but a composition notebook will not.Actually I purchased it for my wife . To hold her I pad and computer for meetings etc. She loves it to do her recipes with . Most Efficient to multi task .The lip is too high and obscures the bottom of the device/ screenOrdered for gifts and personal use. Very very useable for iPad, in kitchen - holding receipts and phone while busy with cooking, etc..The gift recipients really liked this product.Works as intended. I’m using this over the Fintorp rail to hold my iPad or phone when I’m cooking. Beautiful wood, arrived on time and in perfect shape. Would definitely buy this again.Product received as described. I use it for my tablet while relaxing in my chair. I had trouble finding a stand that accommodated a tablet encased in a tablet cover - I had bought another that did not have a wide enough lip. This stand does the job. It is also sturdy and attractive. I can see it could also serve as a book-stand, or picture stand.Works great. Great value.light weight, versatile, use it at my office or in the kitchen holding recipes, its great