The digest format was a convenient size for readers to tote around or to leave within easy hand-reach.
The most famous digest-sized magazine is Reader's Digest, from which the size appears to have been named.
The manga graphic novel format is similar to digest size, although slightly narrower and generally thicker.
[5] Also Diabolik and the vast amount of so called fumetti neri for adults are commonly published in this format.
The format is widely used in comics published in Italy, France, Brazil, Mexico, Spain and more countries.