How to Read an Electronic Book

With the Publishing industry in trouble, the ebook might be the thing that brings it back to life. While the old fashioned paper book is still the preference for most readers, ebooks can be more economical and often more profitable per sale for the author and the reader.

Amazon.com is getting ready to release the Kindle2, and there is also the original Kindle, the Sony Reader and book applications on PDAs and cell phones -- as well as PCs. Here's a look at some of the options.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Consider buying an ebook reader, such as the Sony Reader, Amazon Kindle or Kindle2, or the eBookwise 1150 Reading device. Both Sony and Amazon's models feature a gray screen that is easier on the eyes than a computer screen, and all three are similar in size to a page of a standard book.

2. The Kindle models allow you to download books from Amazon.com no matter where you are. They don't have a back light, and require a book light if you need to read in the dark. The new Kindle2 had a text to speech option, so your books can be read to you.
   
   Kindle books need to be purchased through Amazon.com, and they also carry newspapers that can be read on the device.

3. The Sony Reader allows you to carry quite a library on a small device, but needs to be connected to a PC to download books. However, the books can be bought from anywhere that sells pdf ebooks converted for the Sony Reader -- not just from Amazon.com.

4. The ebookwise reader is less fancy -- but so is the price. Starting at around $150 it's half the price of the Sony Reader, and 40% of the Kindle. It's screen is more computer-like, with an adjustable back light -- so it doesn't have the easy on the eyes paper-like element. But if you're just looking for portability this might serve your purpose.

5. Read ebooks on your PDA or cell phone. The iPhone has a book reader application. Palm Pilots and other personal digital assistants also carry the ability to hold books, however the fonts are often very small on these, and the backlit screens can be hard on the eyes.

6. Download and read books on your Personal Computer. This can be a bit clunky, especially when you are tied to a desktop computer or a full size laptop. A mini laptop might be an easier option. The price of a mini-laptop is comparable to an Amazon Kindle and does most of what a regular laptop does, and is about the size of a hardbound book.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember to do plenty of research before buying a reader or mini-laptop in order to make the right choice for you!
• Whether your choice includes a back light or not, remember to take breaks from your books and rest your eyes.

[KuanShiYin]

on 2/16/2009 I checked one of your links and saw this reader: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001ECKCQU?ie=UTF8

[KuanShiYin]

on 2/16/2009 Wow, I didn't know you could get a e-reader for $150; I'll definitely look into it.