E-books versus Paper

I thought about adding the Kindle to my Christmas wish list last year but I never did. The urge to try it out just wasn't strong enough despite all the advantages being touted. They say it's lighter than a paperback, 10.3 ounces, it will download a book in a minute and it looks like a real book. It would make traveling easier, I usually cart around at least six or seven books, not to mention the magazines and papers.

I love new gadgets and toys, why doesn't this one spark my interest? Maybe I've just been a reader too long. I love the feel of a book in my hands, the various sizes and shapes, the heft of each tome. The covers fascinate me, as do the pages and fonts. Because I've done some writing I know the work that goes into each story and I believe each one deserves the individuality of its own carefully crafted volume.

Electronic books are here to stay and I welcome them. They're great in their own way, easier to search through if you're doing research. Less expensive too, once you buy the reader. Many writers wouldn't be published without them. E-Publishers will take on new writers that a mainstream publisher won't.

I'm just not ready. Maybe next Christmas...