I think this is a former library book, so there is plastic wrap around the dust jacket, and the back part where the hardcover connects to the book is ripped. To be clear, the entire end page/back binding appears sliced, but the book is still readable and has no loose pages. The pages themselves are excellent quality and look brand new. No pages missing, no staining, no folded or torn pages. It looks like the book just sat on a shelf and was never read. It would be an easy fix for anyone with knowledge in binding.