When eReaders first came out, I was skeptical. When eReaders started to become popular, I was still skeptical. What was this little device that was trying to take over my lovely paperbacks? I didn’t want one. But with CLP gaining speed and more and more review requests coming in, I knew I would have to take the plunge. More authors are publishing eBooks, and some are publishing eBooks only. I knew I couldn’t continue to be stuck at my computer reading off the screen, or wasting trees by printing out the book. So I caved.
Well, technically, my mom caved. She is the one who bought me my Amazon Kindle for Christmas. When I first got this lightweight little…thing…in the mail, I’ll admit- I wasn’t sold yet. Turning it on, letting it power up, having to read the directions and log on to Amazon to create my account…these aren’t things you have to do with reading a book. You just open it. So far, I wasn’t getting along with my Kindle.
But then, things changed. After the initial set-up process, I understood why people are raving for these eReaders. Fast downloads, easy to read print, I can read my Kindle anywhere, I can stick it in my purse when I go to work. I was falling in love! Do I want my Kindle to replace my paperbacks completely? Never. There’s something about a great book with a beautiful cover to hold in your hands that is just not replaceable. But I now am a fan of my Kindle, and urge other readers (especially book bloggers) to own one.
Another reason I am so impressed with my Kindle is because of Amazon in general. I started using Amazon a few years ago, buying and selling on the popular website, then became an affiliate when I started CLP. When it was time for me to buy an eReader, the Kindle is what stood out to me. I had no troubles until about seven months into owning it. One night, it just wouldn’t work. The screen was frozen, none of the buttons would work, trying to reset it wasn’t working, zilch. I remember panicking, because I had eBooks on there that needed to be read and reviewed for deadlines. I called Amazon, and a helpful woman walked me through the steps of resetting it, tried to have me charge it fully then reset it, and when all of the above failed, told me she would send me a new Kindle ASAP. No charge, no fees, nothing. Two days later, my brand new Kindle arrived. I deposited my broken one into the box and shipped it off- again with no charge. My new Kindle works beautiful, all my files transferred over without a problem, and I am one happy Amazon eReading customer.
I have to say I agree with much above and thank you for sharing your experience with the kindle. If I went with a straight ereader it is posts like this that have made me think the kindle is the way to go.
I currently have an ipad and I have to say I also really appreciate amazon having an app and that is probably my most used reading app even above ibook and my preference right now for reading.
My sister just had the same experience–they shipped her a new Kindle ASAP, free of charge. Really amazing. I’ve been Kindle resistant (I have a Kobo and a Sony), but that kind of customer service makes them more appealing.
i too resist the ereader. even though i work at a library that enables people to download ebooks, and part of my job is to purchase our ebook collection, i just … i can’t.
but your story is inspiring….perhaps i will one day conquer my fears and start reading on a “reader” as well!
I am in love with my Nook Color! I was curous when ereaders first hit the scene but still waited a bit before plunging head first into ebooks. Finally I bought a Sony ereader which I loved. But was dazzled by the Nook. So I sold my Sony and bought the nook and have been in ebook heaven since. And I always hear such great things about the Kindle, so I understand your feelings.
I’ve finally broken down and have purchased the new Kindle coming out next month. I’ve been resisting the urge to buy a E Reader for quite some time now. There a quite a few books by authors I’d like to read that are E books only so I figured it was time. Can’t wait to get it!
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Glad you are enjoying your iPad Emily! I have heard the Amazon app is amazing 🙂
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It really does make a difference Liz! I have been super happy with my choice 🙂
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Our library just added the eBook option recently as well, Jenny! I think that is pretty neat. If you do decide to get an eReader, I hope you like whatever you choose 🙂
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I have heard really good things about the Nook too Jade! I think the Nook and the Kindle are probably the most talked about eReaders are on the market now.
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The new Kindle looks pretty awesome, Sheena! Enjoy 🙂
Great blog post! When my MIL bought me my Kindle I was hesitant, but I learned to love it. While it is a handy thing that I can even get on my iPhone, I still prefer a (real) book.
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I agree Chauncey, nothing will ever beat a good physical books, but eReaders sure do come in handy!