To Ebook or not to Ebook
Mar 8th 2010
LoriHandelandLori Handeland & On Writing!
I’m one of those who prefers a physical book with paper I can touch and smell. I’ve never read a book on my computer (unless you count my own) and the single book I placed on my iphone in case I was somewhere and didn’t have a book, has never been opened. (Because, really, when am I EVER without a book?)
But when I went to Florida a few weeks ago, I found myself wishing I had a Kindle. I wanted to read 3 books on vacation, but to make sure I had 3 books to read, I needed to bring 5 or 6, just in case one, or more, didn’t work out. Several I really wanted to read I didn’t want to bring because they were trade or hardcover and where was I going to fit THOSE in my bag? A reading device would have solved this problem handily.
As my out of print backlist reverted to me book by book, steadily growing to a list of nearly 20 books that would continue to be unavailable to readers unless I did something about it, I decided to do something about it.
So last week I became a seller of ebooks with the launch of A Writers Work (www.awriterswork.com) a new e-book publisher owned and operated by multi-published authors. Right now three of my backlist titles (Mother of the Year, Dreams of an Eagle, When You Wish) are available there, with many more to follow as soon as I can get them ready.
How many of you have read an ebook? Was it an original book or a reprint of a previously published book by a beloved author? Do you read ebooks on a specific device (Sony reader, Kindle) or your computer or phone? Do you like reading ebooks? If you have tried one, will you continue to read ebooks?
I’m giving away an ARC (advanced reading copy) of my June release SHAKESPEARE UNDEAD. Winner will be chosen at random from the posters on today’s blog.
87 Comments »
87 Responses to “To Ebook or not to Ebook”
B on 08 Mar 2010 at 4:01 am #
I live in Brazil, so, for me, buying a foreign book (which are the only ones I read) usually means paying as much as the price (sometimes more) for shipment and waiting a month (sometimes more) for delivery.
With a Kindle, I can long on the site (from anywhere), click and bam, book, instantly, no shipping. It’s a necessary deal.
Personally, I don’t get this “book smell” thing. Books don’t smell any special to me. And I really think it’s easier to hold a one page device than an open book. I only care about the story. I could be reading it written in napkins for all I care!
Laurie G on 08 Mar 2010 at 5:20 am #
I’m old fashioned. I prefer hand held books. I’ve downloaded several freebies from e-Harlequin etc but I have not read them yet. I’ve also won a few e-books. I would have to read them on my computer. My chair is uncomfortable so I don’t like to spend a lot of time sitting in it. I can’t afford an e-book reading device at this time, nor do I plan on buying one in the future.
Archer on 08 Mar 2010 at 5:40 am #
I live in Turkey and if it wasn’t for ebooks I’d go insane. It costs around $12 to get books shipped here and can take about 1 to 1.5 months to arrive. I don’t know how Claudia got me her book in a week when I won it
Most books I won’t don’t even come here. I asked bookstores about ordering books, but they said they can’t.
If I could I would prefer books at home. I agree with the book smell thing. The older they get the better they smell.
I read microsoft reader ebooks because I can read them on my phone, my laptop, my desktop and my ipaq. I carry my ipaq with me absolutely everywhere. I had a cop stop me and ask me what was so interesting on my phone
Ebooks are so great when traveling. I read while I walk to and from word in the summer. Time goes by so much quicker. I also have my computer hooked up to the tv in front of my treadmill so if there is nothing to watch on tv I read while walking
Archer on 08 Mar 2010 at 5:44 am #
I don’t like devices that lock you into only their format. I really like the B&N Nook, but the fact that they had ebooks before then stopped selling them and people lost their books makes me iffy about buying from them.
I buy my ebooks from websites that sell multiple formats. My favorite is booksonboard. Its soo depressing when a book comes out in a format I don’t read :-/
Bronte on 08 Mar 2010 at 5:46 am #
I love ebooks. Physical space for books is often hard to find and I tend to move quite frequently and I have gotten really sick of lugging books up hill and down dale and across state lines. Ebooks? Easy. Take my laptop and I’m set. I have started to replace my “keepers” with ebooks. Annoys me a little to have to pay for the same book twice but if I really like the author I will do it.
I don’t yet have a reader but I think it will be a birthday present to myself. I will probably buy a kindle.
LoriHandeland on 08 Mar 2010 at 6:22 am #
That is a huge advantage, B, being able to get the book immediately.
I hope the cost on the devices comes down, LaurieG. I think they’re very high priced.
I didn’t realize that the formats could be so widely different, Archer. That would be tough.
That’s another plus, Bronte. I’ve run out of storage space for books.
Kirsten on 08 Mar 2010 at 6:31 am #
I have read an ebook ONCE on my computer cause I don’t have an ebook reader or anything but… I didn’t like it at all. I sat on a uncomfortable desk chair for hours my eyes started to hurt from focussing on the screen all the time and it’s just not the same. When I read I change position on my comfy chair, wrapped in a quilt I bundle up. Call me old fashioned but I also love the turning of the pages and I missed that.
cail on 08 Mar 2010 at 6:38 am #
i’ve read some open source books on my computer. That was back when I had a desk job and things got slow. It looked like I was absorbed in my work, but really it was Jane Eyre or P&P or whatever I had decided to reread that week. The time I read Wuthering Heights everyone probably thought I was annoyed with my work, since I kept yelling at the computer (I didn’t like the story)
My biggest issue with ebooks is you can’t pass them around. My mother reads all the books that I read, and I wouldn’t be able to do that. Would be very frustrating. I suppose if I was given a Kindle or eReader or something I would probably start using it, but for now, I’ll stick to my hard copies.
Robin/RBL on 08 Mar 2010 at 7:10 am #
Tried an ARC on the pc…didn’t like it. I like to read the old fashioned way, in a comfy chair with a book in my hand. Of course, I am also resistant to change so this could be a factor for me.
I don’t like the teeny tiny print that lots of publishers are going to now (I am guessing its to save paper?) and I understand an E Reader has it so you can change the font. That and not having to worry about storage issues are the only benefits I can think of, for me.
What I don’t like: Feels awkward, gets warm, I don’t like the backlighting, you can’t share books, and what if the hardrive goes bad and you lose all your ebooks?
I think its the wave of the future, but I can probably hold out for while longer.
ladydawgfan on 08 Mar 2010 at 7:33 am #
Count me among the old fashioned readers. I much prefer the book that I can hold in my hand to the one that is on my computer (still cannot afford an e-reader). Plus, I like to flip between what I am reading and the picture on the front, and the blurb on the back, and occasionally back to the front or something that I have already read to clarify a point being made. Too much trouble with an e-book.
And then there is that wonderful new book smell . . .
Archer on 08 Mar 2010 at 7:42 am #
this is a good ebook comparison chart to see which reader will work with your format
http://www.booksonboard.com/index.php?F=Device_Selection_Chart
Archer on 08 Mar 2010 at 7:43 am #
Cail I think you can borrow and share nook ebooks (love when you say the name fast
)
Judy F on 08 Mar 2010 at 7:46 am #
I have an ereader but have never used it. Mainly because my computer is so old I can’t use it. I have gotten ebooks downloaded to my computer but I am like the others I have a very uncomfortable chair. I don’t really care for reading off my computer. I prefer the book in hand.
LoriHandeland on 08 Mar 2010 at 7:51 am #
Kirsten, I agree on turning the pages. Just makes you feel like you’re accomplishing something. It’s not the same when you push a button.
Ooo. Good idea, Cail. Back when I had a really boring job I could have used a book on a computer. Back then I could have used a computer!
I’ve heard that the ability to change the size of the type is a big draw to the e-readers, Robin. I can see how it would be.
Kathleen on 08 Mar 2010 at 7:54 am #
I have been tossing the idea around for the past couple of years. First of all it is the price..I know they are coming down in price, but think of all the books I could buy for the price of a e-reader device.. Then there is seeing those bookcovers on my bookshelf or when browsing around the bookstore.. Nothing gives me more pleasure than being amougts all those books and know they are mine for the taking.. But I know eventually I will relent and buy one. But I still love the feel of the book in my hand.. Though I think e-readers are the ideal thing for people who travel.. So maybe we can have the best of both worlds…
Freedom Writer on 08 Mar 2010 at 7:58 am #
I too prefer the physical book, but ebooks look intriguing because you could carry a number of books without the extra weight and bulk that paper books create. Even reading my own books on computer is more difficult than reading them from a printed version.
amy1242 on 08 Mar 2010 at 8:14 am #
I don’t have an e-reader yet, but have been doing research on the different ones available. They all have good points and bad points, so I’m still on the fence. Until I choose, I’m happy with my “real” books. Carrying a sizable purse helps me to bring a book wherever I go, so that’s not a big deal. I will read all the comments today, with great interest on everyones views. (I also like the smell of the paper and ink.)
Claudia Dain on 08 Mar 2010 at 8:27 am #
Wow, great idea, Lori! I’ve been thinking about doing something with my backlist titles. I can’t wait to hear how this goes.
I’ve never read an e-book. I don’t own any sort of device (besides a computer) that can handle one.
Claudia Dain on 08 Mar 2010 at 8:29 am #
Archer, I paid through the nose, that’s how. LOL But please, hold your applause.
LoriHandeland on 08 Mar 2010 at 8:35 am #
Good point, LadyD. Hadn’t thought about how much I flip between the cover and the blurb and parts of the book.
Seems like you are in the same boat as many others, JudyF, with the uncomfortable chair. I have the cadillac of office chairs, but then I’m in it 3/4 of my life. But I still wouldn’t stay here to read a book.
Kathleen-I’m with you on having the covers on my shelf. One of the things I adore about going into a bookstore is admiring all the covers, covers, everywhere.
LoriHandeland on 08 Mar 2010 at 8:37 am #
I know a lot of editors have gotten e-readers for just that reason, Free. They can read manuscripts on them and carry many more manuscripts around that way. I’m looking forward to seeing what the ipad is like. Might be worth getting one if it has decent editing capabilities.
We’ll see how the venture goes, Claudia and I’ll let you know.
Terri Risner on 08 Mar 2010 at 8:41 am #
I love to read. I love to read outside while sitting in the shallow end of the pool, while soaking in the tub, while curled up in my home library in my Goodwill recliner. I read everything from “bathtub” books (it doesn’t matter if they get wet because you know how it’s going to end) to fantasy to mysteries and everything in between. I would be afraid to take an e-book to some of those places. I love the feel of a book in my hands. I stash books in my bathroom, my car, my pool bag, and any place where I might get stuck waiting. I have several favorite author sites that I visit. Most of them have short stories of their sites. I do read those stories on the computer but it just isn’t as comfortable.
So, long story short, I prefer a real paper book.
Margaret on 08 Mar 2010 at 8:50 am #
10 years ago, I spent a couple of weeks in the hospital having some double major surgery. Besides the usual stuff one takes, I packed a tote bag with about 10 or so paperbacks. All I did was nag my daughter not to lose them as I was shuffled from one place to another.
Fast forward 10 years. 2 weeks ago today, I discovered a lump on my stomach. Thinking it was a hernia, I went into the doctor that morning. It turned out to be a honking big abscess. Dr Mac put the wheels in motion and I was in surgery by 7pm.
What did I take to read? My Kindle, of course. I was in the middle of Heyer’s “The Grand Sophy”. During my time in the hospital, I finished it and d/l “Marley & Me”. It was hard not to LOL at some of Marley’s doings.
The Kindle was the hit of my floor. At one point, I had about 8 nurses, student nurses, aides and one doctor getting a demo on it. One nurse and the doc went out and bought their own the next day.
I was so grateful for the Kindle. Easy to manage & hold. Easy to read. I love it more every time I pick it up. I like paper, too, but have run out of room for them. One granddaughter says my bedroom looks like a library. LOL
Michelle B on 08 Mar 2010 at 8:54 am #
I’ve never read an e-book. The readers look interesting and I’ve done some comparison research on them. I don’t travel much so there is no real advantage for me. I read at night laying down in my bed. Like some of you, I love the feel and smell of a book. Browsing book stores is way more fun than shopping on line.
I’ll have a reader some day I’m sure. They are definitely the way to go green. Something else to think about. Text books are very expensive, use a lot of trees. It won’t be long before all students have their school books in this format.
Terri Risner on 08 Mar 2010 at 8:58 am #
Textbooks on a reader sounds like a great idea except…..I have a 7th grader with ADD and I know he would lose the reader at least as ofter as he loses his MP3 player and his cell phone. Thank God for being able to call his cell phone so we can track it down.
LoriHandeland on 08 Mar 2010 at 9:02 am #
I also have books everywhere, Terri. Which is probably why I haven’t yet had to access the emergency book on my iphone.
Wasn’t Marley great, Margaret? I laughed my head off and then cried at the end of that book. We have a lab so his antics were very familiar.
Good point about the going green, Michelle. I think e-readers would be the best bet for college textbooks. I can see them working in that setting.
elsiehogarth on 08 Mar 2010 at 9:04 am #
I’m one of the ones that also needs a physical book. I just like holding a book in my hand, turning the pages, pictures front/back, blurbs, etc. The only author I have read in ebooks is Dara Joy due to my cousin who has Kindle. I just love her Matrix series and I can’t wait until she can have her books published again.
JudyPatooty on 08 Mar 2010 at 9:15 am #
I bought a Kindle when they first came out and have loved it ever since for exactly the reasons you said you wanted one … I can carry a gazillion books with me everywhere I go. I’m never without something good to read.
Publishers love me. I have read more and spent more on books since buying that little sucker than you would believe. I went from primarily checking books out of the library and occasionally buying a paperback to buying dozens of books every couple of months. I love it when publishers put an author’s whole backlist out in Kindle format because if it’s an author I enjoy, I’ll buy her whole backlist and read it in order!
I hate, hate, hate reading on my computer. You really cannot compare reading a download on your computer screen with reading a book on an eReader.
Now, the weird thing … I bought an iPhone a few months ago and downloaded the Kindle app which allows me to read my Kindle books on my iPhone and keeps the two devices synced so either one will take me to the furthest page read. Now I find myself reading mostly on my iPhone just because it’s always out and near to hand.
Rachel Gibson on 08 Mar 2010 at 9:21 am #
I’ve never read an ebook. Probably never will, but I know people who LOVE their Kindle.
Freshechelle on 08 Mar 2010 at 9:22 am #
I’m eager to really get into the Sony Reader I won from the goddesses. My paper collection is high and includes finishing Twilight (am I the only one who finds this book a chore to read?) and just started Nicole’s newest.
I have downloaded P&P and one of Madeline’s backlist but really need to make a dent in my TBR stack before downloading.
Thanks to Sheridan for letting me know I could download mags and newspapers. I did read 2 days of the NYT while getting my hair colored.
I think I’m going to like e-reading it since it pains me to toss out my books when I finish them but I just can’t keep them all.
SheridanLA on 08 Mar 2010 at 9:26 am #
I don’t like reading on my computer, but I am really loving my Kindle. I was also one who thought “I like pages, the feel of it, etc, etc.” then I tried a friends… still not totally sold – I could not borrow it to lay in my bed and read (which is where I usually read.)
then I received one for Christmas. I find I am trying many more authors out (I love that I can get a free sample of a book) and I am not having to ponder where to put another bookcase in my squished little apartment. I am really going to love my next trips – I can save some weight and space and bring way more to read… and in a pinch, I have the Kindle for iPhone app… so I can sync the books with both devices in case I am in a pinch and need entertainment.
I don’t like reading on backlit devices as much (Kindle is not backlit) as it makes my eyes tired (I am already in front of a computer all day).. so another thing I love is that is reads like a book… relaxing and not some new glaring nightlight to contend with.
SheridanLA on 08 Mar 2010 at 9:28 am #
Fresh.. there are lots of things you can do with the e-readers… I might start reading a newspaper again… might.. (I find news too depressing and sensational now)
and I am with you on Twilight.. I made it through the first two and no more.. then sent them to Cail who really loved them, I think. I am glad they went to a good home.
LoriHandeland on 08 Mar 2010 at 9:31 am #
Elsie–I would like to find someone who has a Kindle to borrow.
I figured it must be a lot different to read books on an e-reader rather than the computer, JudyP. That’s interesting that you read a lot on your iphone now. Maybe I would too.
I’ve heard the same thing, Rachel. People who have Kindles adore them.
LoriHandeland on 08 Mar 2010 at 9:35 am #
Glad you’re enjoying the Sony, Fresh. I hadn’t thought about newspapers on the readers. Can you get magazines too?
I’ve heard that the problem with the ipad is that it’s backlit, Sheridan. I hope they change that.
chelleyreads on 08 Mar 2010 at 9:38 am #
i have a couple of e-books on my computer but i can never finish reading them. i get to page 20, stop, and tell myself to finish it another day and that other day never comes. i also have an e-book on my iphone (one of those free amazon ones) but i’ve never read it. i’m for real books all the way!
Kat on 08 Mar 2010 at 10:01 am #
I have a B&N Nook — and I love it. I am often on long car rides and I can’t carry all the books I want to with me. Also, I don’t have any more space on my shelves between my books on writing and series books that I’ve purchased in paper back for years, so a nook was a great deal for me. Often the books are cheaper and I can get the next one with out having to read every title on a shelf, only to find out the book I want is out of stock — or try to order online to have my book take a tour of the country before coming to me. Sometimes I miss having the feel of the pages between my fingers, but this way, it’s more convenient and economical for me. I still buy just as many books — if not more because my DH buys me gift cards that I can purchase from while traveling and I can put my friends stories from sites like AFF and mediaminer.org into PDF and take them with me too. It really helps me BETA for people. Plus I can keep notes in my books without actually marking them up — which helps for my research papers on writing. I LOVE IT!
readerdiane on 08 Mar 2010 at 10:39 am #
I read all kinds of books and have too many bookcases of books. I do love to look at the book covers and blurbs.
But I was going on a 2 week trip and wanted to take some books with me. With the cost of luggage etc I decided to get a Kindle. I wasn’t sure I was going to enjoy it as much as I do. I can see a book and within 2 minutes I can download it to my Kindle and be reading it immediately.
Now not all books can be purchased and I can’t share my books any more but I love it. It is easy to read-doesn’t hurt my eyes-no flicker. I don’t think I could read a book on my PC.
I always carry a book or two with me and now I can carry 40-50 with hardly any weight.
My husband loves that I don’t have as many piles of books around the house.
I do miss seeing our UPS guy so much.
Melanie on 08 Mar 2010 at 10:59 am #
I don’t have an e-reader, but I think I’d like one. The whole going on vacation thing is the biggest reason – just imagine how many books you could take along! I like paper books, and I always will. And untill I can afford an e-reader I’ll continue reading paper books.
DarlingNiki on 08 Mar 2010 at 11:05 am #
Even as a child I loved the smell of books. I read…alot. Lately I have been averaging about 10 books a week
thanks to my kindle. I suffer from rheumatoid arthritis and was dismayed when I no longer could hold a book or turn the pages easily. My hands would spasm, I would drop the book, and loose what page I was on. 
Then my fiance bought me a kindle. I find I can read faster as I no longer have to turn the pages, I can change the font sizes, or even change it to audiobook while I’m taking a bath if I don’t want to leave the story! I don’t know how I lived without my kindle before but I will never go back. I no longer have to wait for the books I want to be shipped to me or have piles of books on my nightstand and ever surface I can find. I have long since run out of room for all the books I have read. Guess it’s time to consider selling them.
I also love the fact that I can have all these books with me, try a sample chapter to see if I like the book before purchasing, be able to revisit archived books with a few button strokes, and being able to buy a book and start reading it within a minute while laying in bed.
karenmc on 08 Mar 2010 at 11:15 am #
I read (a lot) on my ipod Touch. I love the convenience, although I’m overdue for an eye exam (my fault; all I need to do is set the font to a larger size). I have a small house with limited space, so it’s great to have close to two hundred books on a small device (many of those are free classics from the gutenbergproject.org).
I have elderly parents and we’ve moved them three times in five years. All their books went to Goodwill in the first move. I don’t want to end up old and book-deprived. With ebooks, that won’t happen.
LoriHandeland on 08 Mar 2010 at 11:31 am #
I think a lot of people are the same way, Chelley.
I am interested in the note taking features too, Kat.
Readerdiane–I’d probably buy even more books with the immediacy of the download.
Leni on 08 Mar 2010 at 11:33 am #
I’ve read a bunch of original e-books on my PC. I like e-books and would like to try an E-reader because it would be more convenient.
JWZ1978 on 08 Mar 2010 at 11:34 am #
I am an avid reader, and switch back and forth between ereaders and regular books. I love them both, just at different times. The ebook reader is fabulous for travel, which I do a lot for work. It makes it so easy to access books where ever, whenever. I went with the Kindle over other readers for the built in network and ability to download to the device itself. I also have the Kindle and BN ereaders on my computer and IPod Touch. It’s jut the ability to read any time without having to take a book with me that I love. That being said, I do still love the feel of books. There’s nothing quite like walking into a bookstore or the library and just seeing ALL THOSE BOOKS! I love it. I still buy and shop bookstores just as much. I sort of price shop now, but my general rule is if it’s a book I plan to share with someone else (my mom and best friend and I often share books) then it’s automatically a regular book. If it’s a new author or just something for my own quick pleasure reading, then it’s a ebook. Otherwise, it could go either way which I’ll get, although the convenience factor can sometimes make the ebook win out.
LoriHandeland on 08 Mar 2010 at 11:34 am #
Melanie–that would be my main reason too. Ease in taking books on vacation. I always end up bringing twice as many as I’ll read, just in case. And with the downloadability I wouldn’t have to worry about running out.
I didn’t realize there was audiobook capability, Niki. I think I’m getting sold on the kindle. Also love the sample chapter idea.
We are thinking about moving, Karenmc, and it would be great to be able to pack up my books into a single device. I can’t imagine. I’d have to plow through a few stacks here first though.
LoriHandeland on 08 Mar 2010 at 11:36 am #
Leni–the convenience is a huge selling point I’d think.
JWZ–I’m with you on the joy of libraries and bookstores. I walk in and just sigh. Love, love, love seeing roomfuls of books.
Kathy on 08 Mar 2010 at 11:47 am #
I have read books on my pc, but it’s not the same as being in a comfy chair holding it, and hey, you can’t fall asleep in bed holding a computor. so in theory, I would probably like the size of a kindle or other type of ereader.
I like having the books around and know I can just pick them up to reread anytime, plus the bonus of turning someone on to an author.
Kindle has only just come to Canada and I know someone who got one for Christmas. He lives in BC, though, so i can’t try it out.
one thing i know I don’t like is an audio book. I can listen to children’s audiobooks- harry potter is a great listen- but for some reason, it bothers me to not read an adult’s “in my own voice”.
GSM on 08 Mar 2010 at 11:49 am #
Lori–I check out ebooks at the library. Frequently the wait list for these is very short. Most of my books are still paper, but I find about 15 percent of books I’m reading are on my computer now. I don’t believe I’ll ever (willingly) give up paper books. My husband offered to get me a Kindle for Christmas, and I told him no. I do read books faster on my computer, so there are benefits other than convenience.
Jikie on 08 Mar 2010 at 11:56 am #
I prefer being able to physically hold a book. There’s something special about it. I think I secretly like complaining about the lack of space on my bookshelves.
I read ebooks on my laptop and the only complaints I have are eye strain from staring at the screen for so long and the various formats the books come in. When I went overseas this summer, I took 3 physical books, and a laptop full of ebooks. The best part was even though I was overseas, I was still able to get digital copies of Loving a Lost Lord, Don’t Tempt Me, and What Happens in London. I didn’t have to wait to get back to the States to read them.
I would love to have an ebook reader, but I’m waiting on until most of the problems revolving around readers are resolved (though it looks like it’ll take a long while).
LoriHandeland on 08 Mar 2010 at 12:02 pm #
I’ve really come to enjoy audio books, Kathy. But I’ve found I can’t listen to romances that way. I HAVE to read them. Not sure why.
GSM-It never occurred to me that I could read faster with ebooks. That would be a plus.
If I ever left the country on a trip, Jikie, I think that would definitely push me over into the buying an e-reader family. I’d be in too much of a panic that I wouldn’t have enough books to read or wouldn’t be able to get what I wanted if I ran out.
Sabrina Jeffries on 08 Mar 2010 at 12:14 pm #
I’ve read books on my laptop, but mostly very short ones. I really would like to get a reader, though. I like the idea of having as many books as I want right at my fingertips.
Thanks, Archer, for that chart! That should help a lot.
Gibb on 08 Mar 2010 at 12:16 pm #
I love holding books and to me there is a certain smell to them. That being said, I also love my Kindle and have read several ebooks. The Kindle is great for taking on trips and when visiting my in laws so I don’t have to be embarrassed when they see the covers(they are really old fashioned). I will say that when at home I still reach for my beloved paperback books. So I guess I’m in transition – still hanging on to the old but like parts of the new.
Hope that helps.
Gibb
Brenda B. Hill on 08 Mar 2010 at 12:47 pm #
I don’t have a hand held reader but have downloaded and read on my pc. I prefer the book but with arthrits in both hands I can only read for short periods of time due to the pain. I would love to have a kindle or ebook reader and am putting aside a little each mo so I can buy one. With a hand held reader I can read anywhere and not have to be connected by any wires. LOL.. Wires can be dangerous at my age. I have retired so enjoy more reading and gardening and writing a little.
LoriHandeland on 08 Mar 2010 at 1:14 pm #
It is a temptation, isn’t it, Sabrina. All those books in one easy package.
I’m sure I’ll be the same, Gibb. I can’t imagine giving up print books completely, although you never know.
Brenda–I’ve been having issues with my thumbs if I read a long time, so I would think that an e-reader would be helpful in that way.
amy1242 on 08 Mar 2010 at 1:23 pm #
I just checked out Archers link and was disheartened to find that to download books on the Kindle you need to be able to get a Sprint cell phone service signal. Unfortunately, in this part of Wisconsin, cell service is sketchy. I would have to drive into town to download from there. I was all set on getting a Kindle, too. Darn it! Thanks for that link, Archer!! I guess I’m stuck with my UPS guy delivering them or driving 30 minutes to shop for them. I’m bummed!
SuzyQ on 08 Mar 2010 at 1:24 pm #
I’m on the fence with this one. I like the feel of having a book in my hand, but I would also like the to be able to carry around several books in one device.
There are a couple of drawbacks that I can see. One, I like to read on the beach and I don’t know how resistant the e-readers are to sand. Two, when flying you have to turn off electronic device before takeoff and landing. There would be a lot of missed reading time there. I also do not like proprietary formats. What if I want to change readers in the future? Would I lose all my books? I’d have to do a lot more research before buying one.
Fiona on 08 Mar 2010 at 1:46 pm #
Cail–You can share ebooks Nook-to-Nook. I love that.
I also love that the B&N ereader is a free download to smart phones, iPod touch and computers, so you don’t have to buy their device to read their ebooks, unlike the Amazon/Kindle format.
I read a lot–about 10-15 books a month-fiction & nonfiction (I keep a running list on my blog.) DH gave me a NOOK for Christmas and I have easily saved the price of the Nook on the discount I get on the ebooks. This does not count the FREE books that are out there. I have downloaded and reread several old favorites that way.
The other thing I love about my Nook is shopping for new books on it–they offer a free sample, so I can decide if the book is right for me without having to pay for it first. This has saved me a lot of money.
My DH and kids have iPod touch and read B&N downloaded books on them. We all read a lot and has the B&N e reader saved us money and packing space when we travel.
I still buy “hard copies” of books I love for my keeper shelf–such as everything by Karen Rose– and I do get some books from the library every month, but I am very comfortable reading before bed, on a plane, and waiting for my kids with my Nook.
LoriHandeland on 08 Mar 2010 at 1:51 pm #
Bummer, Amy. I just checked and it’s a go here. Would you have service for the Nook? Isn’t that wireless too?
I do like to read during takeoff and landing, SuzyQ. Takes my mind off the whole process. It would certainly be nice if every book you bought for any reader could be read across readers. I’m not sure how that works.
I can download Kindle books onto my iphone, Fiona. Not that I’ve read any, but I can. Didn’t realize books could be shared Nook to Nook. Interesting.
E.R. on 08 Mar 2010 at 2:21 pm #
I LOVE the physical aspect of holding to a book. I love lounging on my bed and reading the book. However, I am wishing for an e-reader because I have a trip coming up soon. I’ll be out-of-country for nearly three weeks and wish to have an e-reader in my hand, just for saving space. If I have one, I would bring it along as well as some physical books so that I can read one in the airplane as well as other places I’ll be going that may not be “safe” enough (in my eyes, there is not one “safe” area where I’ll be going to). Right now, I’m thinking of bringing along 5 [keeper] books, but I dearly wish to bring only 2 books and an e-reader.
I have dl some e-books and hadn’t read them yet. I plan to read my first one soon, but I’m debating if I want to read it or not. The good thing is that I got choices. Yes, it is in the computer, and the chair may not be comfy, but I have a link that can access the hard drive where it is store in the laptop, and I can access AND the e-books to read them on the laptop in my bedroom, so I can be comfy when reading. Though I must say, it may end up getting annoying due to the bulkiness of the laptop and I want to move around a bit.
E.R. on 08 Mar 2010 at 2:24 pm #
Thus, I want an e-reader for convenience’s sake, though I prefer a physical book in my hand.
Oh, and the e-book that I’m debating on reading is a previously published book by an author I’m interested in reading, and may have read a book of hers in the past (I read a LOT of books, so it is hard to remember if I had or not).
I would say that I think if I have read an e-book, I would continue reading more. That’s my thought. I’ll let you know more after I get my hands on an e-reader and/or read an e-book.
Archer on 08 Mar 2010 at 2:48 pm #
I’ve said it before Claudia You rock lol
The postage was something like $6, half of what the large bookstores charge
Another good thing with ebooks is the bookmark and highlight feature. I’m also kinda dorky I like looking up things mentioned in the book if I’m online or bookmark them to ook it up later. Although my ipaq crashed a few times and I have lost my bookmarks a few times grr
amy1242
You should look into other ebook readers. A lot of really nice ones are coming out, Kindle just has the advantage of making itself known first.
LindaB on 08 Mar 2010 at 2:58 pm #
I don’t have an e-reader yet so I guess I’m in the group who loves the covers, colors and the feel of books. I am also addicted to all kinds of bookstores, library sales. etc. I even love finding original issues with their original covers.
The idea of being able to have multiple books available while traveling is great, though, and it’s also really terrific that authors would be able to control their own backlist through e-readers.
SuzyQ on 08 Mar 2010 at 3:11 pm #
I’ve been searching around and Borders (which is my bookstore) is partnering with Spring Design’s Alex. Looks pretty cool and from what the preliminary reports say it will support a wide variety of formats. It also has a dual screen for internet access. Will have to wait and see the reviews after it’s been released.
Julia London on 08 Mar 2010 at 3:16 pm #
I bought a kindle last summer for the same reason, Lori. I got tired of hauling books all over the world. I love that thing. I’ve read several books on it, but I still read actual books, too. I especially like that I can read it when I am doing the elliptical. I can adjust the font and see it and it fits on the little ledge. very nice.
Gannon on 08 Mar 2010 at 3:33 pm #
I got a Nook for Christmas, and I really enjoy it! I’ll never give up “real” books–love the feel of them in my hands, but for travel (and conserving some shelf space) the Nook is perfect. Plus, since I review books (@ The Romance Dish) many publishers are sending e-ARC’s and reading on the Nook is much easier than reading an entire book on my laptop. I had to do that with the first one, and it drove me crazy.
Karen Hawkins on 08 Mar 2010 at 3:48 pm #
I’m a two-fer, too. I love regular books … AND I have a Kindle that I use when I’m traveling. That way I get both the luxury of turning the page (which I still love to do), AND the convenience for when I travel.
Lori, I LOVE the new website and I’m definitely going shopping on there asap!
Nicole Jordan on 08 Mar 2010 at 3:57 pm #
Shakespeare Undead sounds like such fun, Lori! Can’t wait. And I think it’s cool that you found a venue for your backlist.
I much prefer real paper books, but my new little Netbook reads some e-book formats and has a very good, fairly large screen. I’ll be using it to read the pdf file of a manuscript I agreed to quote on, and that’s a great way to save on printing.
Karen Rose on 08 Mar 2010 at 4:30 pm #
I like the feel of a book – plus I like to find and read the sex scenes first. Yes, I really do.
I’ve got a knack for opening a book to just the right page for the sex scene, it’s a gift. But I’m not sure I could do that with an ebook.
I have considered a Nook tho.
readerdiane on 08 Mar 2010 at 5:05 pm #
@Amy1242.
I took my Kindle to the wilds of New Hampshire & Vermont-I could download books very easily there. Kindle uses their Whispernet not your Internet connections.
I have arthritis in one thumb and the Kindle does not seem to be bothered by clicking with it.
LoriHandeland on 08 Mar 2010 at 5:14 pm #
I can see where an e-reader would be VERY helpful on a 3 week trip, ER.
I just watched the Kindle commercial on Amazon, Archer, and I love the feature where you can highlight and look up a word in the dictionary. How convenient!
I’m very excited about having my finger on my own backlist, LindaB.
Chelsea B. on 08 Mar 2010 at 5:22 pm #
You know, I am not an ebook person AT ALL. I love to shop for books. Love to hold them in my hands and flip pages. Love to put them on my shelf and pull them down whenever I want to read them again. But I do see why people like them. Especially if you travel allot. But I don’t. So I’m sticking with my books, thanks
LoriHandeland on 08 Mar 2010 at 5:23 pm #
I saw that about the Alex, SuzyQ. The more I hear, the more I think I need to wait a while and see all the options. I definitely want to see and touch and play with an ipad before I decide.
I wanna see that Kindle, Julia!
Or KarenH. You lucky dogs! Glad you like the website. I thought it turned out great.
Gannon-didn’t realize the pubs were sending e-galleys. Interesting. That would be very handy to have a reader for that.
LoriHandeland on 08 Mar 2010 at 5:25 pm #
Thanks, Nicole. I am so excited for Shakespeare Undead to be on the shelves.
I need to hit Barnes and Noble and take a look at the Nook, KarenR. Have you seen one?
I’m glad to know, readerdiane, that you could access books way up north there!
I’m always playing with my books too, Chelsea. They’re the best toys ever!
B on 08 Mar 2010 at 5:38 pm #
Karen R, in the kindle you can type key words that you’d find in a sex scene and go right to it. Not that I’ve ever done it before, of course!
Jeanine Lesperance on 08 Mar 2010 at 5:50 pm #
I love my kindle….Love it. I got over that book feel, smell thing really early. The convenience of being able to carry hundreds of books with me, is so fun. Great for travel.
nancyg on 08 Mar 2010 at 6:01 pm #
Shakespeare Undead? LOVE the title!! Have to see if there’s an excerpt up on your website now.
I’ve never read an ebook, prefer the “real deal”. When I go on vacation, it’s usually sun & sand (and lots of fruity cocktails). I don’t think I’d take an e-reader poolside or on the beach. I went for a week this summer & took 6 books with me – I just left them at the rental house when I was finished with them.
My best friend swears by her Kindle, but I’m yet to be convinced. She lives in & out of her car and is always on the go, so it works out better for her. She says she’s read more in the last year than she had in the previous 5 & is always asking for book recommendations from me.
That being said, I do have my eye on the new Apple iPad. Thinking of pre-ordering one…or maybe waiting for the 2nd generation to come out.
Gannon on 08 Mar 2010 at 6:30 pm #
Lori, I suppose the reason for the e-galleys is cost. We still get plenty of hard copies, but are seeing quite a few e’s.
SheridanLA on 08 Mar 2010 at 6:35 pm #
ereader in a baggie… protection against sand, splashes and what not.
LoriHandeland on 08 Mar 2010 at 6:46 pm #
Carrying 100s of books. Sounds like heave, Jeanine.
Thanks, Nancyg. My website is being updated now, and I’m hoping it’ll all be ready by mid-April so check back then.
Louisa Cornell on 08 Mar 2010 at 9:21 pm #
Late to the party, but my Luddite self just can’t get used to the idea of reading an entire book on a computer screen of any kind. (And lets face it, that is what a kindle, etc is – a little computer for reading.) I can write a book on one, yes, but read it? No. I LOVE books. My house is a monument to books. My brothers and nephews have a running bet about WHEN the floors are finally going to cave in under the weight.
I read anywhere and everywhere and having a book in my hand is just what I’m used to. Like you said, as you turn the pages you feel as if you are getting somewhere.
I’ve read research books on my computer out of necessity, but frankly if I could afford the hard copy I’d own it. Books are just treasures to me and I’m too old and stuck in my ways to give them up.
LoriHandeland on 08 Mar 2010 at 9:43 pm #
I have heard the Kindle is different from a computer screen, Louisa, and looks more like a book, but since I’ve never seen one I’m not sure what this means.
Anyone have an explanation?
Lisa G on 08 Mar 2010 at 10:12 pm #
I am torn between an eReader and books. I really want an eReader because of the convienence, possiblity of hundreds of books and portablity but they are still expensive. I still like the feeling of having a book in my hand. I love the adventure I go on to find new books. Going into a bookstore always places me in an natural high state of mind. I love the smell, the touch and look of new books and I know I would never get that from an eReader. It’s terrible I can’t have the best of both worlds!
Archer on 08 Mar 2010 at 11:29 pm #
As far as I know Kindle, Sony and Nook don’t have backlights so that they seem more like paper. Still not the same thing if you ask me, but it doesn’t bother my eyes. You need a night light to read in the dark which is why I personally would prefer a backlight.
GaryPaulson on 09 Mar 2010 at 3:41 am #
I like a physical book. I have tried to read books on my computer, on my old palm, and now on my Droid but they don’t ‘feel’ like books. I have 3 or 4 books on my Droid right now but have no interest in even trying to read them
Thanks!
LoriHandeland on 09 Mar 2010 at 6:20 am #
Maybe they can bottle that new book smell and have it waft out of the device as the pages “pretend” turn, LisaG. LOL.
I knew there was something about the lighting, Archer, that made them unlike computers and easier on the eyes.
Same thing that happened to me with the iphone books, Gary.
LoriHandeland on 09 Mar 2010 at 6:21 am #
The winner of the ARC of SHAKESPEARE UNDEAD is Kathleen.
If you could send me your address at
LHANDEL120 @ aol.com
(no spaces)
Thanks!
Shontell on 12 Mar 2010 at 12:35 am #
I love my Kindle and get new books on it weekly. It is so nice to just toss in a bag or purse and read anywhere at anytime.. I never leave home without it!!
Rhonda Schumacher on 14 Mar 2010 at 8:18 pm #
I was planning on going on a trip to visit my son in England while he was studying abroad and the kids told me I had to pack light. Argh! I never travel without several books so I was a bit worried. I took the plunge and bought myself a Kindle to take. I LOVED it! I had more books to chose from than I could possibly use and I always had something to read for those down times when you are waiting for someone or something else to happen. I still love my books and if I have a particular favorite I definitely would not be without a hard copy because I really do not trust anyone not to mess with something that seems to be working fine and I would be really upset to have a favorite book no longer available when I had paid for it and my only copy was electronic. I had a wonderful time traveling overseas and I was able to enjoy rereading a couple of old favorite books at the same time. It was truly a delicious holiday. Because I won’t give up my hard copy books I still have the dilemma of having boxes and shelves of books all over the place. I guess I just need a bigger house. My kids both love books too and they are just starting to build their collections. Yikes!