Just to take a break from talking about books, authors and characters for a moment, I’ve referred to the Kindle a few times already and I think it is worth spending a little time on it because it has been such a revelation in reading and methods of reading over recent times. If you haven’t come across it, firstly, I’d be surprised but, just in case, have a look at this link for some background.
It’s hard to believe it has been around since 2007 but, at the same time, I really can’t imagine being without it! Having said that, people have different views and I would certainly like to hear what you think about it so please let me know. I am a great fan and completely sold on it but I still hear many people saying that they remain faithful to books and prefer the feel of a book in their hands. I have certainly been surprised at the way in which I have managed to eliminate books almost completely from my life after having been surrounded by them for so many years. I also feel a bit guilty about the impact the Kindle and, I guess, the internet and online availability generally has had on the book industry and on bookshops. No matter how convenient I think my Kindle is, not least because of the space you get in your suitcase as you don’t have to take books on holiday, I still think it has been sad to see bookshops closing across our towns and cities. To be honest, much as I have always enjoyed browsing around bookstores, the only reason I find myself in, say, Waterstones, these days is either to buy a present for someone or to see if I have missed the publication of any books by authors I like. Occasionally, I find some success in that although, for the most part, with emailed recommendations and lists of books that might appeal to me in the Kindle store, it is pretty easy to keep up to date with favourite book releases. Moving away from the Kindle to the internet (and I know I’ve already mentioned this), it is also great, if you are looking for some new reading, to search what might appeal to you, simply by saying ‘if I like books by x and y, who else might I like’. It was searches like that which found me John Lescroart and Vince Flynn, among others.
I’m not sure there are too many disadvantages with the Kindle although, if I was being picky, I might say that the typeface is a bit boring and it is a bit clunky if you want to refer back for a reminder of what has happened previously (not a big deal, I suspect until you start getting a bit older and forgetful!). I also spend more money on books than I used to by buying on publication – it’s a bit like getting the hardback rather than waiting for the paperback – and I know I should take much more advantage of cheap or free books, borrowing rather than buying and making better use of my prime membership. I have to say, on that latter subject that Amazon Prime must be one of the best deals I have come across with fast delivery, exclusive US Open and other tennis coverage, free films and books and availability to family and friends! The range of books available to buy or borrow on the Kindle is phenomenal and I’m pretty sure that every book I refer to or recommend in the blog is there. They are also very easy to purchase and to pre-order although you do need a wifi connection to ‘shop in the Kindle store’ and I have found that a little inconvenient from time to time when I’m away from home. The trick is to stock up on purchases before you go on holiday just as I suppose you would at the bookstore!
So, a very positive message and a big commercial for the Kindle – what do you think?