iPhones can take plenty of abuse, but they get scratched up pretty quickly, which is one of the reasons why cases are necessary. Unlike some, I prefer to keep my phone in as good condition as possible, so when I inevitably upgrade and resell it, I get maximum value. The BookBook case from Twelve South is an interesting idea, since it combines a protective iPhone case with a wallet.

The BookBook case is nicely designed, and fits the iPhone 4 and 4S well. There are 3 slots for credit cards and ID cards, as well as a small slip pocket for some cash. The best thing about this case is that it keeps your iPhone screen scratch-free. Unless you are very diligent in always storing your iPhone in a pocket with nothing else, it will eventually get scratched up. Thanks to its phone pocket and folding cover, this case stops this from happening. The case can also be put inside a bag or purse without any problems.

Personally, I like my cases minimal and simple, but when I was offered this case for review, it made me wonder if that’s really what I wanted. For me, it’s not the best fit due to its bulk. The book-like cover is a cute idea, but the overall design makes the phone a lot thicker than it needs to be. That said, if you’re looking to travel light, it does combine wallet and phone case, and that’s all some people need when they go out clubbing.

With a list price of $59.99 (USD), the BookBook is one of the more expensive iPhone cases I’ve seen. In fact, it’s close in price to some of the waterproof cases that I’ve been looking at. That said, it’s reasonably priced if you take into account the cost of both a case and a wallet.

The BookBook case is available over at Twelve South in either brown or black leather. You can also find the case At TiG on sale for just $21 right now.