Damp

If your book gets any dampness in it, whether from rain, humidity, or just plain packing in the attic, the minute you find it, it is best for you to seal it in a bag with rice or salt. The rice or salt will absorb the moisture.

If it is very wet, for instance, it fell into the sink while the water was running, dab away all the moisture you can, then place dry paper towels between the wet pages, press the book, and place in the freezer until frozen. The ice will brush off. 

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Sun

Your book has been discolored by the sun. I get it. I have had several handy reference manuals damaged by that. The color will not return unless you paint/dye it back to the color it was originally. And remember to keep it out of the sun please.

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Dirt

Like I mentioned, dry any mud, then brush off any dirt. If the soiling is severe, sponge at it with a slightly dampened rag or paper towel.

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Mold

Freezing with salt works wonders. Unfortunately, there comes a time when it will no longer work, and you must look on the mold damage not as a flaw, but as a feature. 

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Bugs

Termites, silver fish, and other creepy-crawlies do get your attention, and if allowed to proliferate, they can and will destroy whatever books they happen to find. Since paper is a wood derivative, it is not unheard of for termites to take up residence.

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Rodents

Mice and rats will work on the edges. This is usually when books are left alone in a garden shed or the attic for a long period of time. Move the books, eliminate the rats and mice, or both, as you see fit.

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House Fires

House fires are notorious. There is smoke damage, heat damage (sometimes), and occasionally water damage. Use a damp cloth to clean away the smoke from the cover as well as the edges of the pages.

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Smoking, Vaping, Etc.

First, I do not recommend anything in this category. It is bad for your health, and makes the whole house dirty from smoke deposits. However, if you have been given a book that was formerly owned by a smoker, or if you have stopped smoking (good for you. Keep it up), the best method of cutting the smell would be to saturate a cotton ball with lemon oil and place it into a bag with the book. Seal the bag and leave it for a week. The book will have absorbed the lemon oil and the smel of smoke will be much reduced. Renew the oil and repeat the process for as long as it takes. 

Other good oils to try depending on your likes and dislikes are mint, eucalyptus, cinnamon, or lavender.