When you want to read your next title, do you prefer an e-reader or a hard copy of a book? There are definite pros and cons to both.
I was surprised that it’s been 25 years since the first electronic reader was first introduced. The earliest printed book by means of mass production? According to oldest.org, it was the Gutenberg Bible around 1450-1455.
An e-reader certainly is convenient. By the time you get changed into your comfy clothes, grab a blanket, and get settled in your favorite reading spot, you can have your new book downloaded and waiting for you. One of my favorite features is the ability to increase the size of the text. Combine that with the backlight component and your eyes are thanking you.
A negative of an e-reader, in my mind, is the inability to inhale the ink and paper smell. I’m one of those people that wished they made a perfume to replicate that scent. The tactile process of turning a printed page is also amiss. Finally, I know there is a feature that you can bookmark a page in an e-reader but there’s nothing quite like having an old recipe card or a store receipt keeping track of the last page you read.
All the negatives of an e-reader can be turned into positives for a book. The smell, the feel, and the use of bookmarks. In addition, there’s something about a pretty design on the front (you know I like to judge a book by its cover!), and my habit of thumbing the pages as I read is comforting. If only all books were printed with large types! I do own an e-reader. I use both, but definitely like to feel a book in my hand.
In the comments below please tell me the one thing you appreciate about your preferred reading device. I’m curious. Whether you fancy an e-reader or book, I hope whatever you’re currently reading is entertaining and brings you joy each time you sit down to read!
On my Instagram poll on January 9, 67% of participants said they preferred to read a physical book while 33% enjoy an e-reader.
lumpymaggot
I definitely love an e-reader! I have a Kindle Fire, but prefer my phone since I always have it with me. 😊 My favorite perk of having a device is tapping on unfamiliar words to immediately get a definition! I exponentially increase my vocabulary that way!! 😂
myheartinpen
Thanks for your take on this, Karen! I enjoy hearing everyone’s perspective. I absolutely agree about the word definitions!
Writer McWriterson
I’m typically a physical book reader, but I’m just starting to get into audiobooks particularly because my youngest doesn’t like to read, so we listen to them in the car. 🙂
myheartinpen
Well, that makes perfect sense to me! I haven’t listened to an audio book in awhile. Maybe I’ll try it again. Thanks so much for your comment!
Writer McWriterson
Of course! 🙂
Lisa Porterfield
I prefer a physical book to hold in my hands and turn the pages. I’m currently reading a book that you recommended last year…thanks!
myheartinpen
Lisa, I’m with you. Is it weird that I love the smell of books? Haha! I’m so curious which one you’re reading?! I hope you’re enjoying it! Your comment is much appreciated!
Melanie Riley
I have to have a physical book or magazine in my hands. Don’t like e-readers. I love the smell, the way the pages feel, the heft, the sound of the pages turning. Digital just isn’t the same.
myheartinpen
I appreciate your sentiments, Melanie. I do flip-flop between the two but it’s about 85% book and 15% e-reader. It’s interesting why readers like different devices. Thanks for your comments, as usual!
Lisa
I’m reading Malibu Rising. I usually read seasonally as well but after you recommended this book it was on hold at our local Library until recently!
myheartinpen
I liked it and hope you do too! I’ve also heard good things about The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by the same author. My “To Be Read” list is so long!