The Reader, a blog devoted to books and publishing and how technology is reshaping it, asks a very relevant question for voracious readers like me:

Ebooks are wonderful — in concept. Lower manufacturing and distribution costs mean less-expensive (or even free) books and a democratization of the means of production. Decreased consumption of resources for printing and shipping gives a hand to a staggering biosphere. The digital medium allows for carrying a shelf full of books without having to warp one’s spine.

But what is it like to actually read an ebook?

The use of ebooks, in a banana republic like mine where the culture of book reading is not significant – even declining, has not gained traction. I myself have never read from an ebook, though I would not shun it if given the chance.

Read the rest of this entry »