Like An Open Book, Part 1

I love books. I’ve loved books since before I could read. When I did learn how to read, I remember walking to the library while reading the last book I borrowed. I’d then read another book in the library and borrow one for my walk home.

I remember how exciting I found Joules Verne’s stories. I remember how enchanted I was by the Neverending Story and Watership Down. I enjoyed comic books as well. I mostly remember enjoying Tin Tin, Asterix and Obelix and Lucky Luke.

I read tens of books published by TSR. I read every Pratchett book. Zelazny, Frank Herbert, Douglas Adams… So many worlds to explore.

I later started exploring technical books. I learned programming languages, algorithms, architectures, new ways of working with people, managing my finances. I just could not get enough of books.

I’d read on my way to work. I’d read on flights. I’d read while waiting for an appointment or an interview. I would always have a book on me.

I still can’t get enough of books. The thing is, when you have hundreds of books, space becomes somewhat of an issue. It’s also a bit hard to carry around more than one at a time.

For my birthday, my wife bought me a Kindle Oasis. For years I was skeptical about e-readers. I couldn’t imagine parting with the feel of paper and flipping a page.

Because of my skepticism, it took me a while to start using it. Eventually I did, though. And what can I tell you – I’m a converted man.

There are several significant advantages to a Kindle:

• The reading experience is pleasant, even in complete darkness.
• I have tens of books with me at all times.
• It remembers my progress in every single book.
• Highlighting sentences is easy.
• The built-in dictionary is a lifesaver.
• What’s really cool is it has a lifetime free GPS connection.
• E-books can be much cheaper than paper ones.

I still love my books. But now, every time I consider buying another one, I prefer getting an e-book. I think its time to turn the page.

Stay tuned for a follow-up if you got a Kindle too…

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