The Kindle; a Bookworm's Best Friend

The idea of the e-book is similar to that of an mp3, in the reduction of the physical packaging of the material into a stream of data, making it cheaper to produce and easier to sell. It is easy to say the Kindle is the iPod of literature. However, like to iPod or iPhone in its early stages, the Kindle sells for roughly $360, making the initial purchase a little pricey.

Rivals have already sprung up, including the Sony Reader Other sites, like EcoBrain, covered in this article, have taken to providing access to e-books without the purchase of a reader.

In fact, the e-book trend it growing even with those not yet willing to shell out for a reader. Many people now find it easier to download their favorite novels in the comfort of their own home, without the threat of sold-out shelves or waiting lists. The Sony Reader’s partner service, Connect, has over 10,000 titles, while the Kindle’s partner service provides access to 140,000.

Questions arose initially within the industry about the product’s niche. Would people buy it? What would it feel like to curl up with your Kindle instead of your favorite worn-out paperback? Many people still prefer the feel of books, but imagine sitting in the doctor’s office, or on vacation, and suddenly getting the urge to read that favorite novel. The one you left at home. Certainly at times like these the Kindle makes itself worth the while. Of course, there was a time when an iPod seemed frivolous, but it is now a staple of the modern life. Will the Kindle be just as necessary in another 10 years?

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