So, I’m still using the Kindle, still reading Freedom. I’m still trying to figure out the advantages of using a Kindle or other e-reader instead of a paper book, at least on the consumer end.
Pros:
Smaller than some books.
Easier to read than hardbacks and most paperbacks, in terms of ergonomics.
Can increase font size.
Books tend to be dramatically cheaper for hardback, somewhat cheaper in paperback.
Books arrive instantly on the machine via a WiFi connection.
The screensavers are kind of cool. I have a thing for portraits of people that I like (POTUSes, authors, Snugglecat).
Cons:
It is sloooooow. I said this earlier, that it takes longer to press next page and have the e-page flip than it does to actually flip a page. And since I read really fast, those foreshortened pages tend to zip right by.
There isn’t any kind of backlight. I was thinking that I was being bratty for wanting something like this, but seriously? My cell phone has the technology to light up so I can read it in the dark, and the Kindle is designed for sustained reading and doesn’t? It would be a great feature to add for people who travel or people who have to sit in their apartments during a power outage because of torrential rain. I actually read a Kindle by candlelight this weekend. That is silly.
Page numbers. Come on, Kindle. Seriously, what do those numbers at the bottom of the page mean? I’m sure this information is somewhere in the Owner’s Manual, but something as basic as page numbers should be something I don’t need to consult a manual for. It was annoying at first, but I’ve gotten used to it and now report that I am 81% finished with the book, at locations 10202-9. Whatever that means.
I don’t really like how difficult it is to flip back and forth from page to page. I think that would probably be an issue with any e-reader. I tend to go back and reread pages, and not knowing page numbers is kind of driving me nuts. I also tend to go back and read the first sentences of most chapters and the Kindle does not make this easy. I’m not sure there’s much of a solution for it, but I don’t think I can state it enough: Page numbers would help, Kindle people.
Also, lets talk for a moment about the name: Kindle. It sounds cute and pokey, a device that you can have confidence in, but are not intimidated by. I love the “Kindle” screensaver in particular, because it explains exactly what the word means
FIRE. Yeah, yeah, I get that it’s supposed to inspire readers and get them a-smolderin’ for their literature, but don’t you think it’s a little sinister that it also refers to setting things aflame? Like books? You can’t burn a Kindle, not in good environmental conscience, anyway. Is the little machine trying to tell us what life would be like in a world where Farenheit 411 makes no sense whatsoever?
Answer me this, Internet: How is the Kindle better than an actual book?
I don’t have a kindle, but instead have a nook. They can be kind of slow and if someone is a fast reader who spends a large amount on lit, then they’d mostly get it for the cost- most people ask and choose it based on the cost of ebooks. My nook does have page numbers and if there is more than one “screen page” per actual page, then it just keeps the same number until the you are onto the next real page. The backlights aren’t a feature so that you can read outside in the bright sunlight. How often do you choose a print book over a digital book- I couldn’t make the transition completely to digital print- I probably read 60% print 40% electronic.
Main advantages: 1. books cost less on it.
2. saves space compared to a bookshelf
3. lazy people don’t have to travel to a store to pick up a book or wait for delivery times.
4. changes in font/text size- older readers/students with reading disabilities/focusing issues from ADD.
5. easy use during travel and not having to head to a store when traveling if you finish your book/newspaper/magazine.
6. you can lend some ebooks like regular books (on the nook at least.)
Greg
I will say this about the back light thing: it’s much better that a kindle DOESN’T have a back light. Fun fact: The company that developed the technology, e-ink, is local (Massachusetts). Think about it, if you were reading a book you would have to turn on a light, or light a candle anyway. Back light is really, really bad for prolonged reading, can strain your eyes and give headaches.
This is my first ebook foray. The bright sunlight thing makes a ton of sense- I don’t know why I didn’t think of that, I can barely read my cell phone screen outside. Alise- great nugget of info, I had no idea the backlit screens were *that* bad for you. Maybe they should toss in a book light or something;)