MySwag.org The Off-road Camper Trailer Forum
General => General Discussion => Topic started by: Nay-DMAX on July 16, 2013, 12:49:00 PM
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So I have been thinking about getting an e-reader for awhile now and try to research on the internet about them but they all have such mixed reviews wondered if some swaggers could help me out. I am wanting to know what brands people have and what they do and don't like about them, there are so many different screen types now with backlight and without and others with the option to clip light on the top. I want something that is easy to read and if it is good to read at night with then I probably would. Also what is the best for accessing books. I really love traditional books but think this would give me the option of having more books with me with less bulk.
Cheers
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Bought the bride a Kindle a couple of years ago. She loves it. While it is never the same as holding and reading a book it has many other advantages. The main one being the screen shows as a page, not back light and she doesn't get any of the eye strain or head aches that sometimes happen.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0051QVF7A/?tag=gocous-20&hvadid=8782576877&hvpos=1t1&hvexid=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=3364586871173744347&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=e&hvdev=c&ref=pd_sl_1jz3836cn0_e (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0051QVF7A/?tag=gocous-20&hvadid=8782576877&hvpos=1t1&hvexid=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=3364586871173744347&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=e&hvdev=c&ref=pd_sl_1jz3836cn0_e)
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I'm not sure on the cost difference, but I'd look at the ipads or note/tablet type devices. You're not limiting yourself to just an ebook. The ipads or tablets can do much more - storing music, movies and ebooks along with being used to take photos/videos, navigation and in some cases browse online.
The lad picked up a Galaxy note on special at JB's last week (he's anti-apple) and it seems to be pretty shmick.
We use our ipad up the bush for navigation, movies, books and online as it is the 3G version.
Tim
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My wife recently got the Kobo Glo. It was a toss up between that & the Kindle Paperwhite as both have backlights - saves having to clip a light to the top.
She went with the Kobo over the Kindle as it is easier to download books from the local library & library books are free although it did require some Adobe software to be downloaded first.
There are a few threads in Whirlpool forums which we found useful
http://forums.whirlpool.net.au/forum/83?&g=255 (http://forums.whirlpool.net.au/forum/83?&g=255)
http://forums.whirlpool.net.au/forum-replies.cfm?t=1949524 (http://forums.whirlpool.net.au/forum-replies.cfm?t=1949524)
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Hi there
SWMBO has a Kobo touch. It isn't one that is back lit so it is much easier to read - gentler on the eyes. She has a cover for it and a small reading light can clip on if needed. It syncs wirelessly and the battery lasts forever. Great for a camping trip as she can load a bunch of books on it and we only have one "book" to pack.
Whatever you get make sure it can read epub files as not all do but most books come in an epub format I believe.
Cheers
Stephen
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I bought the wife a Kindle Touch and a cover that had the light in it. She dropped it and now it's a dud, the screen is caput.
I was going to buy her another but decided on getting her a Samsung Galaxy Note 2 it runs Android and has a nice 7" screen. It came with the Kindle app installed and is useful for a lot of other things besides reading. I don't think she will go back to an E reader again.
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The Mrs and I both use Kindles.
As much as I like the multi-functionality of an iPad/Galaxy Note etc, I personally don't find that they are that good for just reading. The screen is too bright, they weigh too much, and the battery life is pathetic compared to a dedicated reader (we recharge the Kindle's about once a month).
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I'm not sure on the cost difference, but I'd look at the ipads or note/tablet type devices. You're not limiting yourself to just an ebook. The ipads or tablets can do much more - storing music, movies and ebooks along with being used to take photos/videos, navigation and in some cases browse online.
The lad picked up a Galaxy note on special at JB's last week (he's anti-apple) and it seems to be pretty shmick.
We use our ipad up the bush for navigation, movies, books and online as it is the 3G version.
Tim
The Mrs and I both use Kindles.
As much as I like the multi-functionality of an iPad/Galaxy Note etc, I personally don't find that they are that good for just reading. The screen is too bright, they weigh too much, and the battery life is pathetic compared to a dedicated reader (we recharge the Kindle's about once a month).
Thanks Tim and Kiva these are 2 points that I discuss with the BF all the time he thinks get a tablet instead (we are also anti apple) but at the moment I really mostly just want something I can read that I wont have to charge all the time and I do want it to be easy to read.
To everyone else who replied thanks so much I will have a look at those whirlpool links and see what I can find on there. It is something I would normally have decided on long ago but don't want to spend the money and not be happy with it. And there is so much info about e-ink and back light and different book libraries that I cannot seem to choose. Maybe once I finish the paperbacks I still have here to read it will push me to a decision quicker. If anyone else has any others please keep them coming.
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Best thing we found was to get your hands on one and see how it feels looks and reads
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Kindle all the way!!! We also have iPads but the battery on the kindle is great
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Kindle all the way!!! We also have iPads but the battery on the kindle is great
Kindle getting a lot of votes on here they have a lot of different ones in their market do people have a certain model/type and are they much different.
Best thing we found was to get your hands on one and see how it feels looks and reads
Yes I think I am going to have to ask around and see who has one or get into some stores to have a play with them.
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I used to use my old HTC phone and now use my galaxy note. If your phone is a decent size just use that.
What I like about this is wherever I am I have my book with me. Saves taking another device. My wife has a kindle that I tried for awhile but didn't like it.
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I used to use my old HTC phone and now use my galaxy note. If your phone is a decent size just use that.
What I like about this is wherever I am I have my book with me. Saves taking another device. My wife has a kindle that I tried for awhile but didn't like it.
I have a HTC at the moment but I don't find it big enough to read off comfortably. I think next time I am in town I will get into JB HI FI or somewhere like that and try to check them out.
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I've had a few different eReaders over the years. I've had 2x Kogan e-readers. Their original one (non-touchscreen) was fantastic and I could load all sorts of ebook formats via a SD card. Unfortunately before I left on my last overseas trip I pulled it out to find it frozen and never was able to get it to work again. I also bought an ex-girlfriend the touch version of the kogan e-reader, this was nice to use, but we had issues with the touch screen stopping working and random resets etc.
Before I headed of overseas I needed to get a new ereader so started looking at what was out there. I ended up going with the kindle keyboard with 3g. This meant I could use the free whispernet internationally if I needed to access to a bank account etc online without needing to pay for data roaming. The kindle is great and I still use it regularly even for reading around home. The only issue is that you either need to connect to a computer to get files on it or send them via the web when you have access to wifi. I used Calibre to help manage the books on it because I have a lot of unpublished online fiction that I read.
The other kindle I'd look at if you don't want access to the whispernet (which you don't if you're not travelling internationally) is the new Kindle Paperwhite. This is a smaller kindle with touch screen and a built in backlight so that when reading at night you can read without an external light, very handy and gets great reviews.
Otherwise tablets and mobiles are good, but I always found them hard to read for long periods, I love the eink screens for their readability.
What exactly are you wanting to do with your ereader?
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I've had a few different eReaders over the years. I've had 2x Kogan e-readers. Their original one (non-touchscreen) was fantastic and I could load all sorts of ebook formats via a SD card. Unfortunately before I left on my last overseas trip I pulled it out to find it frozen and never was able to get it to work again. I also bought an ex-girlfriend the touch version of the kogan e-reader, this was nice to use, but we had issues with the touch screen stopping working and random resets etc.
Before I headed of overseas I needed to get a new ereader so started looking at what was out there. I ended up going with the kindle keyboard with 3g. This meant I could use the free whispernet internationally if I needed to access to a bank account etc online without needing to pay for data roaming. The kindle is great and I still use it regularly even for reading around home. The only issue is that you either need to connect to a computer to get files on it or send them via the web when you have access to wifi. I used Calibre to help manage the books on it because I have a lot of unpublished online fiction that I read.
The other kindle I'd look at if you don't want access to the whispernet (which you don't if you're not travelling internationally) is the new Kindle Paperwhite. This is a smaller kindle with touch screen and a built in backlight so that when reading at night you can read without an external light, very handy and gets great reviews.
Otherwise tablets and mobiles are good, but I always found them hard to read for long periods, I love the eink screens for their readability.
What exactly are you wanting to do with your ereader?
That was very informative I am wanting to do the same thing I do with a book read it camping, in the car, before bed, at home if I get time. BF says look at tablets cause they do more but my phone does those things but he has a work phone which is not a smart phone so he doesn't have access to those things. My battery life on my phone is terrible so would not read with it as well even if it had a bigger screen. I would not care if he got a tablet as well as getting an e reader but might be a waste of money then.
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If you like reading regularly get a dedicated ereader. I have ipad, android and windows tablets in family. But we all have a Nook touch ereaders as well. Nook very similar to Kobo, I got them in US 18months ago, but not sold locally. The E Ink display is so much easier on eyes that a TFT screen on a tablet and the battery life is weeks/months. The newer glow models remove the need for external lighting if reading at night. I would probably go that way if I was buying now. JB HIFI has plenty at good prices. The Kobo, Sony etc all can read "epub" format which is widely available at libraries and online shops. Kindle is limited to "mobi" format which really only Amazon uses. That said it is so easy to buy and instantly download to your Kindle many people fine this perfect.
I prefer to use http://calibre-ebook.com/ (http://calibre-ebook.com/) this software to manage my books on my pc and just load a few to each family member. Once I have bought a book, Calibre as plugins that can make life easier to share books amongst family.
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We use the Kindle for reading books.
Very easy on the eyes and a long battery life.
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That was very informative I am wanting to do the same thing I do with a book read it camping, in the car, before bed, at home if I get time. BF says look at tablets cause they do more but my phone does those things but he has a work phone which is not a smart phone so he doesn't have access to those things. My battery life on my phone is terrible so would not read with it as well even if it had a bigger screen. I would not care if he got a tablet as well as getting an e reader but might be a waste of money then.
Well if you want something that can replace a book, get an ereader. Tablets are great, I have one that I take away with me, but ereaders are significantly better for reading, they're lighter and their batteries last weeks rather than hours. This means you only need to charge it once before you take it away anywhere, unlike a tablet or phone which is daily or every 2 days.
The advantage of a tablet is that you could play games, browse the web and watch movies, but lets face it you're away. Reading a book is very different in that respect. So just get an ereader.
Have a look at the Kindles, Sonys and new Kobo ereaders. They are all good options. I'd also suggest keeping an eye on gumtree/ebay as you can generally get good condition second hand ereaders very cheap! (that's what I did for my kindle!).
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Gosh I love myswag so much information and easier to understand from real people not tech based reviews on websites. :cheers: :cup:
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One thing Id def recommend is getting a proper kindle case. They fit snugly and offer great protection for the kindle
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We were going to buy one for Socks but we ended up buying an iPad mini instead so much more value for money as you can do so much more that just ebooks. Which of corse you can get heaps on free books on the iPad just like you can on the kindle !
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD
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We were going to buy one for Socks but we ended up buying an iPad mini instead so much more value for money as you can do so much more that just ebooks. Which of corse you can get heaps on free books on the iPad just like you can on the kindle !
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD
Yep we use iPad as e reader as well. Perfer the screen.
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The Mrs and I both use Kindles.
As much as I like the multi-functionality of an iPad/Galaxy Note etc, I personally don't find that they are that good for just reading. The screen is too bright, they weigh too much, and the battery life is pathetic compared to a dedicated reader (we recharge the Kindle's about once a month).
x2
Kindle for me too. Bought mine from Amazon way before they were available here in Aust. Love it. Download tonnes of books off Amazon.com. Classics are available for free, recent releases are reasonable to purchase and then of course there's the of recent release freebees. It's saved me heaps of $$.
Tonnes of info here as well as Kindle models, reviews, pricing etc. use the scroll bar
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004HZYA6E/ref=kindle_dp_comp (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004HZYA6E/ref=kindle_dp_comp)
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My partner brought a Sony, the reason being the library suggested it as it is not locked into a
particular supplier and will work with all formats including library borrows.
Cheers
Leigh
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Hey u
I had books on my iPad and hated it so I have gone back to traditional reading. (Books)
;D
P.S. I am sorta anti apple but you just can't beat an iPad, just bought a mini iPad.
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Hey u
I had books on my iPad and hated it so I have gone back to traditional reading. (Books)
;D
P.S. I am sorta anti apple but you just can't beat an iPad, just bought a mini iPad.
Hey U too how you been?
This is part of my worry as I love books but I hear good things about the ereader type screen I really like to read but have a book shelf overflowing with books and thought with a ereader then I don't have to hold the page open as much as just hold it at a good angle to read. We will never own an ithing in this house lol. Andrew is no fan of theirs.
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Mrs T & I both use iPads with Kindle Reader (free app) on them. Backlit, can read black on white, or white on black. Can change font size, buy books from Kindle store.
Can also run Hema Maps App to keep track of geographical location, surf web, send receive emails, download photos and so much more with an iPad.
I carry two, a mini predominately for work, with an iPad 4 as backup, and whilst travelling I use the iPad 4 more.
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Bought my Kindle Paperwhite from
www.readershop.com.au (http://www.readershop.com.au)
Very good service and you get extras like a car charger that you don't get when buying retail. They're in Adelaide.
Cheers, Tony
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I really like to read but have a book shelf overflowing with books.
For this reason alone it is definitely worth getting something no matter what you buy. And way way cheaper than paper books aswell.
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If you are good with a computer you will never buy a book again ????????
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I was looking at buying one before Christmas last year. In the end I would have paid about $200 for a good one which was ultimately only an e reader. For a little extra money I ended up getting an iPad mini which has the function of not only an e reader but has the added bonus of games, Facebook, tapatalk etc. I can use either i books or amazon for my books.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD
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If you are good with a computer you will never buy a book again ????????
Not to bad with a computer I am on it enough haha but the BF knows his way around them pretty well.
I was looking at buying one before Christmas last year. In the end I would have paid about $200 for a good one which was ultimately only an e reader. For a little extra money I ended up getting an iPad mini which has the function of not only an e reader but has the added bonus of games, Facebook, tapatalk etc. I can use either i books or amazon for my books.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD
I would consider a tablet if I needed those things but not ipad but really my phone can do all those things now I don't know will hopefully have more idea once I play with them at the shop
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I bought the bride a ipad mini. She uses it to read and search Internet. I am going to use it for maps etc. it has been worth every cent and a lot more value for money than other ereaders. That is in my opinion.
Good luck choosing, I'll finish off by say, just buy what is going to best for you. They are all good, just some do more things than others
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I have both iPad and an eReader (Sony). The iPad is great for reading, especially in low light, but I found that it can be hard on the eyes after a while and the longer you read, seems to get heavier. Battery life is about 10-12 hours if you dim the display to around 20%. Glare is a problem if you want to enjoy the sun and read at the same time.
The Sony reader is light, easy to read provided the lighting is good, and the battery lasts about 6 weeks when I use it about 4 hours per day. Much easier to read in sunny conditions. Will read epub, pdf, and a couple of other formats. I'm told it will hold about 1000 books but I can only guarantee about 80 (all I own). Main drawbacks- no access to email, etc like ipad, can't read without a light source, not the cheapest eReader on the market.
Hope this helps, and doesn't muddy the waters even more.
As someone else pointed out, epub seems to be the most popular format for ebooks so if you get a reader which includes epub and perhaps pdf you won't run out of books.
Eric.
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I'm not sure on the cost difference, but I'd look at the ipads or note/tablet type devices. You're not limiting yourself to just an ebook. The ipads or tablets can do much more - storing music, movies and ebooks along with being used to take photos/videos, navigation and in some cases browse online.
The lad picked up a Galaxy note on special at JB's last week (he's anti-apple) and it seems to be pretty shmick.
We use our ipad up the bush for navigation, movies, books and online as it is the 3G version.
Tim
x 2 ... I'm waiting for my chinese cheapie to arrive ... it's 3G!
Kit_e
P.S. I just don't get how "Net Weight 590g" can be HEAVY?? Some books weigh more than that ... especially if you go hard cover over soft.
Soft Covers:
Fifty Shades Freed 429g
Kathy Reichs Mortal Remains 460g
Kathy Reids Deja dead 412g
Jean Auel Shelters of stone 430g
Lynda La Plante Cold Blood 312g
Dean Koontz Seize The Night 612g
Stephen King 4 past 0000 495g
Hard Covers:
Sorry all Stephen Kings ...
Rose Madder 612g
Dolores Claiborne 573g
Nightmares & Dreamscapes 1036g
Wolves of the Calla 1129g
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Adding my vote to purpose built e-Reader in preference to iPad or tablet. I first bought a tablet with the expectation I would use it for reading (installed Kindle software) but for that it completely sucks. Too heavy, backlit screen is hard on the eyes and I found it very difficult to hold without touching the screen triggering some unwanted function.
I bought my daughter a Kindle and immediately saw the advantages so bought another one for myself. The Kindle is small, light and the e-ink display is far far superior as a book/paper replacement. They don't use this technology on tablets because it is slow and therefore useless for any moving content, whereas for a static page of text this is never an issue. It literally looks just like text on paper and can easily be read even in direct sunlight.
I chose the cheapest Kindle over the slightly dearer Kindle Touch, reason being it has buttons so no inadvertent page turns. You can hold it anywhere without accidentally pressing or activating anything.
Battery life on these is much better than a tablet, since the display itself uses no power to hold an image. The main power drain is WiFi which can be turned off if desired but even with WiFi on, battery life is in weeks. This model has no backlight so if reading in the dark you need a light just like with a real book.
On the downside; and this applies to e-readers in general (including tablet based software) you can't sell or transfer purchased books. You can loan to another user for 2 weeks but that's all. If you don't want it and a friend does, you can't give it away.. they have to buy their own copy. Of course there are many free e-books (e.g. most of the classics) for which this is not an issue. For me the advantages outweigh the disadvantages.. you can buy a book and have it instantly. e-books are generally cheaper than paper books. They don't take up any space and there's nothing to get rid of once you're done with it. The Kindle remembers your place in each book you're reading, so no bookmarks either, and this transfers from reader to reader if you have multiple.
Although Kindle is the big evil brand in the market I couldn't see any advantage in going for something else. They are no cheaper and don't offer anything the Kindle doesn't. I'm very happy with mine.
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Brucer if you get familiar with torrent files you will have a solution to your disadvantage!!! Very easy to transfer files on and off kindle. Especially if using the free program called calibre e book management.
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I hope we’re not talking about stealing intellectual property here :police:
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Forgot to say in my earlier post that the Readershop Kindles come with a disc containing 29,500 books.
That's not a mis-type. 29,500. Should keep you busy for a few weeks!
Cheers, Tony
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Forgot to say in my earlier post that the Readershop Kindles come with a disc containing 29,500 books.
That's not a mis-type. 29,500. Should keep you busy for a few weeks!
Cheers, Tony
I did notice that wow that is a lot of books I wonder if anyone who has got those has read them all
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I have tossed around the idea of getting a kindle paperwhite 3G but import if from the IS as I have heard mixed things about the one sold in Aus being locked to Vodafone network and the coverage not the best but buying from the US it will use any 3G network - price wise worked out abit dearer but piece of mind meant I had 3G coverage,
Then given the $$ to buy this looking at tablets gives me more flexibility usage.....so until I make up my mind I have the kindle ap on my IPhone to see if I can handle that type of reading light.
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I love and can't live without my iPad. I can read in bed and don' t need the light on.
Cheers
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I better half and I both have Kindles with covers and clp on lights. We have the ones with the small keyboard on the bottom. Bought them from Dick Smith on line as refurbished with 12 months warranty for $99.00. I was wasn't sure I wanted one but love it. You can get online and get free books for Kindles all the time. Sometimes the offerings are better than others. Also have a disk with 2000 books on it so never short of something to read. Can also surf the net when wifi is available. Battery life is a good month. :cheers:
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I read a bit on my iPad and the only downside becomes the size. If I wanted to buy a dedicated reader I'd probably go for an iPad mini. Simply because I don't get the eye strain thing others talk about.
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Why not get both; that is a tablet and an e-reader?
The tablet is far more versatile and can also function as an e-reader, but if reading for long periods an e-reader wins hands down. Even though I already had a tablet, dropping another $100 on a Kindle was money well spent. Now I have the best of both worlds and the Kindle edition licensing allows the same book to load onto multiple devices registered to the same user.
Brucer if you get familiar with torrent files you will have a solution to your disadvantage!!! Very easy to transfer files on and off kindle. Especially if using the free program called calibre e book management.
Thanks for that Jjw. To every problem a solution eh :D
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OK my experience so far sums up what most are saying.
I have kindle, Google play books and another free torrent book app on my phone. I have to admit although I use it a fair bit when away I much prefer a proper e reader for the screen on them. I had one of those kindles with the special screen, great battery life, I could read it for hours and not get a headache. The down side was, it was a bit fragile. I dropped it on the tiles and it was no more. I use the tablet every now and then but find the screen gives me sore eyes and a headache. MrsEvo has one of the aldi cheapies and it works great. I will eventually get another kindle, as I really liked the screen.
Cheers
Evo
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Evo I did that and rang amazon. They send you a replacement! Believe it or not they do. The next one I made sure I got a proper amazon case it protects it a lot more and being such a snug fit doesn't get in the way.
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We each have a Sony eReader. A bit of a pain to work out, but they are great for reading books. Great in the sun (sitting on the beach etc), no good in the dark unless you have the cover with inbuilt led light or background light.
Prefer a book , but the Sony eReader is very good, just don't get caught placing a bookmark under the reader cover :angel:
Have an iPad but prefer to use the eReader for books. With a tablet, no good in sunlight, but good at night. Opposite with eReader.
If you are thinking of a 7" tablet, the new Google Nexus 7 2 is expected to be released in the next 3 to 6 weeks. Looks like a real nice device.
Again, horses for courses.
Ed: the Project Gutenburg books can be read on eReaders or tablets. Free on either, but I doubt there will be many of those you will read.
As mentioned by others, the battery life on an eReader is great. Not so good on a tablet.
The Salvo shops have cheap books (paper style) that youcan put back into the Salvo system when finished. We usually buy a few from a Salvo shop and donate back to another Salvo when finished and buy a few more. The Sallies and their 'real customers' benefit, and the books are cheap!
You need light to read a paper book as well as you do with an eReader.
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Hubby gave me a Kindle Paperwhite 3G at Christmas but previously I had a Kindle. I wanted to upgrade from the Kindle because at night I was using a reading light or reverting back to reading on the iPad (I have been told that the iPad light is bad for your eyes if used for reading at night-not sure about the newer models but worth checking). The Kindles are great for ease of downloading books from Amazon but you can also download from other eBook providers and Amazon certainly has a huge library. The Paperwhite 3G is fantastic when you are anywhere where you don't have access to WI-Fi as it has it's own built in WI-Fi connection. I also love the ease of the touch screen and the nightlight is great too. Good luck with your decision.
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Never used an e reader, but I am currently working in remote NT so bought a galaxy note 10.1 to use for a bit of everything, I have read 9 books in the last 3 weeks and have no probs with eye strain, or weight etc. I use an app called cool reader, and set the screen to black background with white text.
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Theres No substitute to epaper readers. Kobo and kindle are prolly on par. We chose kobos because they handle none drm content better. I have a touch and the wife has a glo.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk 2
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Hey U too how you been?
This is part of my worry as I love books but I hear good things about the ereader type screen I really like to read but have a book shelf overflowing with books and thought with a ereader then I don't have to hold the page open as much as just hold it at a good angle to read. We will never own an ithing in this house lol. Andrew is no fan of theirs.
Yeah probably Mills and Boon and 50 shades of Grey. hee hee
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Bought the bride a Kindle a couple of years ago. She loves it. While it is never the same as holding and reading a book it has many other advantages. The main one being the screen shows as a page, not back light and she doesn't get any of the eye strain or head aches that sometimes happen.
http
://www.amazon.com/dp/B0051QVF7A/?tag=gocous-20&hvadid=8782576877&hvpos=1t1&hvexid=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=3364586871173744347&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=e&hvdev=c&ref=pd_sl_1jz3836cn0_e (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0051QVF7A/?tag=gocous-20&hvadid=8782576877&hvpos=1t1&hvexid=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=3364586871173744347&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=e&hvdev=c&ref=pd_sl_1jz3836cn0_e)
This could get a bit confusing for anyone reading, but as the name says, "alnjan", it covers us both...I'm the "Jan" bit! hello!
as Al said, I've been using my kindle touch for a couple of years...wow, two and a half when I add it up, geez that went quick! I'm happy with it.
I wanted an e-reader for a couple of reasons, but mainly so I could take my bookcase with me when we go away, camping/travelling. A lot of my friends take one book and that does them for two or three weeks. I read one book in a day! Big books. the little ones are an easy afternoon read! Getting the picture here? One bag for clothes, one bag for books...now with the kindle I have room for shoes as well! lol
I have the kindle touch. I have arthritis in my hands, so wanted something without buttons. The only drawback with the 'touch' is that sometimes I touch the screen without meaning to, a page will turn. Or I go to wipe off a speck of fluff etc the page will turn. No biggy really, but I do have to find where I was, the 'back button' helps. I mainly use my kindle when camping, the battery life is incredible, even for the amount that I read, I still get a month between charges; not that I've needed it yet, but I bought a 12volt charger for it that plugs straight into the cigarette lighter in the landcruiser, so I'm covered if I need to charge it while out in the bush. (that is if I can get time amongst camera batteries and phones charging) (why do I read so much when camping? Instead of being out there climbing mountains? Well, it's not because I don't want to, but after having my femur replaced, that sort of thing is beyond me, so I now enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the surrounds, with a cup of tea and a good 'book')
I didn't want a backlit screen. I have dodgy eyes and they get really tired looking at computer screens and tvs, and I didn't want another backlit screen. I think that would chew up your battery life too. Yes, there are now kindles, and other e-readers, with built in light, but again it's using the same power source as your reader. I bought a small clip-on craft light, runs LEDs, quite bright, has several power settings, so I can use a soft light or brighter ones, it's on a flexible neck and takes two AAA batteries. It's lightweight and I just carry a spare set of batteries for the time i need to change them, not that I've had to yet; the LEDs don't draw much power. When I bought my kindle, I also got a hard cover for it, opens like a book cover. I fold it back when reading and that's what I clip my light too. works a treat.
There is now a kindle white or something like that available. Looks like white paper. I don't think I personally will go that way when I upgrade. Take a white paper paged book into the sun and a 'normal' colour paged book and read out there.....there's quite a bit extra glare coming off the white white page as opposed to what we normally call white.
I can't comment on any of the other brands of e-readers, as I haven't had an opportunity to use any of them. I haven't tried to borrow books for my kindle from a public library yet - there are so many free download books available from Amazon, that I now carry a large collection of books with me anyway, and they're usually on the kindle in under a minute. The books that I want to read over and over again I've bought; they're 'copies' of what is in my book case - you know the ones I mean, the ones you just can't live without. Electronic versions are much cheaper than the printed editions.
About the only thing I'd suggest you keep in mind when buying whatever e-reader you settle on is to make sure you get the screen size you're comfortable with. If you get a screen that's too small, then the font size will have to be small. So stick with a screen that's "book-sized" and then you can set the font to the size you're familiar with reading. That way, you'll hardly notice the difference once you're used to holding an e-reader instead of a book.
Oh! one added benefit to an e-reader.....the pages don't fall out, no matter HOW many times you read a book!! lol
As useful (note that word) as my kindle is, it will never replace my books. My PASSION is BOOKS; the feel of them, even the smell of the paper, it all adds to my reading pleasure. The kindle is a useful tool, and one I'll continue to use when I need to.
ps. Just been reading the other responses and they talk about networks etc. I'm not locked into any network - the kindle operates wirelessly, which I turn off in-between downloading anything to conserve battery life. I have downloaded straight onto my computer from Amazon, hooked up the supplied cable and transferred onto the kindle that way.
I find it easier to browse Amazons free books on the computer and have the wireless setting selected to 'ON' on the kindle. When I find a book that sounds interesting, the next step is a 'click' of a button on the computer screen and the 'book' is downloaded straight to my kindle in under a minute - easy peasy!
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Have both an IPad and a Kindle. Bought the Kindle first 4 years ago. prefer reading books on the Kindle, but are times, especially with diagrams, the IPad is better. Probably a new Kindle would handle them better, but I find that by using both I get the best of both worlds.
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Not to bad with a computer I am on it enough haha but the BF knows his way around them pretty well.
Get an e reader and a tablet. Since this guy sounds really smart you could get a Toshiba Windows 8 tablet (clearly your bloke is smart enough to use it) and it will probably keep him quiet while you read.
Once you work out what you want, drop some subtle hints you might get one as a present (because you partner probably has a sense for this sort of stuff).
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There is one huge drawback with a ereader.
What to do with the fly?
With the old fashion book, you will hit it and continue reading.
But with the ereader.......................
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Yeah probably Mills and Boon and 50 shades of Grey. hee hee
Nah not my style I thought that was your bookshelf. HahaGet an e reader and a tablet. Since this guy sounds really smart you could get a Toshiba Windows 8 tablet (clearly your bloke is smart enough to use it) and it will probably keep him quiet while you read.
Once you work out what you want, drop some subtle hints you might get one as a present (because you partner probably has a sense for this sort of stuff).
[/quote
Those who dont know lino6 is the partner BF I mention so now I can get a present.
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There is one huge drawback with a ereader.
What to do with the fly?
With the old fashion book, you will hit it and continue reading.
But with the ereader.......................
Hahahaha picturing this that is funny not so much I guess if you drop the ereader.
This could get a bit confusing for anyone reading, but as the name says, "alnjan", it covers us both...I'm the "Jan" bit! hello!
as Al said, I've been using my kindle touch for a couple of years...wow, two and a half when I add it up, geez that went quick! I'm happy with it.
I wanted an e-reader for a couple of reasons, but mainly so I could take my bookcase with me when we go away, camping/travelling. A lot of my friends take one book and that does them for two or three weeks. I read one book in a day! Big books. the little ones are an easy afternoon read! Getting the picture here? One bag for clothes, one bag for books...now with the kindle I have room for shoes as well! lol
I have the kindle touch. I have arthritis in my hands, so wanted something without buttons. The only drawback with the 'touch' is that sometimes I touch the screen without meaning to, a page will turn. Or I go to wipe off a speck of fluff etc the page will turn. No biggy really, but I do have to find where I was, the 'back button' helps. I mainly use my kindle when camping, the battery life is incredible, even for the amount that I read, I still get a month between charges; not that I've needed it yet, but I bought a 12volt charger for it that plugs straight into the cigarette lighter in the landcruiser, so I'm covered if I need to charge it while out in the bush. (that is if I can get time amongst camera batteries and phones charging) (why do I read so much when camping? Instead of being out there climbing mountains? Well, it's not because I don't want to, but after having my femur replaced, that sort of thing is beyond me, so I now enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the surrounds, with a cup of tea and a good 'book')
I didn't want a backlit screen. I have dodgy eyes and they get really tired looking at computer screens and tvs, and I didn't want another backlit screen. I think that would chew up your battery life too. Yes, there are now kindles, and other e-readers, with built in light, but again it's using the same power source as your reader. I bought a small clip-on craft light, runs LEDs, quite bright, has several power settings, so I can use a soft light or brighter ones, it's on a flexible neck and takes two AAA batteries. It's lightweight and I just carry a spare set of batteries for the time i need to change them, not that I've had to yet; the LEDs don't draw much power. When I bought my kindle, I also got a hard cover for it, opens like a book cover. I fold it back when reading and that's what I clip my light too. works a treat.
There is now a kindle white or something like that available. Looks like white paper. I don't think I personally will go that way when I upgrade. Take a white paper paged book into the sun and a 'normal' colour paged book and read out there.....there's quite a bit extra glare coming off the white white page as opposed to what we normally call white.
I can't comment on any of the other brands of e-readers, as I haven't had an opportunity to use any of them. I haven't tried to borrow books for my kindle from a public library yet - there are so many free download books available from Amazon, that I now carry a large collection of books with me anyway, and they're usually on the kindle in under a minute. The books that I want to read over and over again I've bought; they're 'copies' of what is in my book case - you know the ones I mean, the ones you just can't live without. Electronic versions are much cheaper than the printed editions.
About the only thing I'd suggest you keep in mind when buying whatever e-reader you settle on is to make sure you get the screen size you're comfortable with. If you get a screen that's too small, then the font size will have to be small. So stick with a screen that's "book-sized" and then you can set the font to the size you're familiar with reading. That way, you'll hardly notice the difference once you're used to holding an e-reader instead of a book.
Oh! one added benefit to an e-reader.....the pages don't fall out, no matter HOW many times you read a book!! lol
As useful (note that word) as my kindle is, it will never replace my books. My PASSION is BOOKS; the feel of them, even the smell of the paper, it all adds to my reading pleasure. The kindle is a useful tool, and one I'll continue to use when I need to.
ps. Just been reading the other responses and they talk about networks etc. I'm not locked into any network - the kindle operates wirelessly, which I turn off in-between downloading anything to conserve battery life. I have downloaded straight onto my computer from Amazon, hooked up the supplied cable and transferred onto the kindle that way.
I find it easier to browse Amazons free books on the computer and have the wireless setting selected to 'ON' on the kindle. When I find a book that sounds interesting, the next step is a 'click' of a button on the computer screen and the 'book' is downloaded straight to my kindle in under a minute - easy peasy!
Hi Jan thanks so much for commenting and for putting so much information in your post that was very helpful especially the information about loading books etc. I am the same I really like books and take a few if we go away not quite a bag full haha but usually at least 3 and just think it would be so much better to just have them all in one for travelling. I will see if I can find a store that has a few kindle options to have a play with as it looks like JB don't stock them but I think dick smith do. :cheers:
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Both kindle and kobo are in the new big w catalogue.
Fairly good prices, nothing to leave the fire for tho haha.
Cheers
Evo
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Dick Smith is the stockiest in Australia. At the time they didn't have the Kindle Touch in Australia and tried to get it from Amazon, but they wouldn't send it to Australia, due to Dick Smith being the Australian distributor. We ended up going through a third party in USA to get the Kindle Touch in time for when we wanted.
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I have just been given a Kobo Glo for my fifty oneth and I cannot be more pleased with it. The Kobo is way more friendlier to different formats hence a larger variety of books than the kindle which to my knowledge can only receive "amz" format from amazon. Supposedly one month of battery life and up to 1000 books with more storage available with micro sd card. I am waiting for a leather cover for it as I can be a little rough with the gear. Must be the boilermaker in me.
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The kindle uses mobi format files but its very easy to change the ebook format with a free program called calibre
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Both kindle and kobo are in the new big w catalogue.
Fairly good prices, nothing to leave the fire for tho haha.
Cheers
Evo
If you decide on a Kobo, look at the prices on Harris Technology website, then do a Price guarantee through Officeworks
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Okay, here comes the obvious question from me....what is an E-Reader?
Tjupurula
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Okay, here comes the obvious question from me....what is an E-Reader?
Tjupurula
An electronic book. Similar to a small ipad but uses a screen which is not back lit, like your new ipad or a computer, so can only be read in ambient light, similar to a paper book. The e-ink screen is better for your eyes and causes less eye strain. Normally a page fits on the screen, like a book, and you flick the screen or press a button to turn a page. They are not very expensive and you purchase books over the internet, although google has scanned thousands of books, now out of copyright, which you can access for free.
KB
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An electronic book. Similar to a small ipad but uses a screen which is not back lit, like your new ipad or a computer, so can only be read in ambient light, similar to a paper book. The e-ink screen is better for your eyes and causes less eye strain. Normally a page fits on the screen, like a book, and you flick the screen or press a button to turn a page. They are not very expensive and you purchase books over the internet, although google has scanned thousands of books, now out of copyright, which you can access for free.
KB
Thanks KB, it proves to me that there is still so much I have to learn, sometime in the future.
Tjupurula
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I am using Calibre as well to convert files or manage the books.
I found a site where I could download all Clive Cussler and Stephen King books in one go. That will give me many hours of reading.
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Wilsurf, free download or paid?
Can PM me with details if you don't want to post, I find some of, ok, most of, those free 29500 books are not my sort of reading ......
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Hi Nay-DMAX
Thanks for the thread, well maybe not. Napanangka has now decided that we have to start putting our pennies aside so that we can buy one eventually. WE both love reading, and getting books out here in the desert is a challenge in itself.
Regards
Tjupurula
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There is one huge drawback with a ereader.
What to do with the fly?
With the old fashion book, you will hit it and continue reading.
But with the ereader.......................
Good olde fashioned fly swat works well ;D
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Hi Nay-DMAX
Thanks for the thread, well maybe not. Napanangka has now decided that we have to start putting our pennies aside so that we can buy one eventually. WE both love reading, and getting books out here in the desert is a challenge in itself.
Regards
Tjupurula
You know she has that new coodro? (was that right) so is best if you listen to her haha. It will be good though if books are hard to get what sort of books do you both she like could get some books on your ipad to see if you like reading them that way.
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You know she has that new coodro? (was that right) so is best if you listen to her haha. It will be good though if books are hard to get what sort of books do you both she like could get some books on your ipad to see if you like reading them that way.
The IPad is mainly for the grandkids and Napanangka, I have not touched it since I have been back, and that is perfectly as it should be. We do not have mobile reception here, so cannot download onto the IPad, though I believe Steve (SteveandViv) may be helping us with something to do with this. I really enjoy a magazine called Scientific American and National Geographic.
Regards
Tjupurula
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I use my iphone..... like everything it takes some training and getting use to but now I can't imagine going back - If I fall asleep reading as a I normally do the screen switches itself off (I use the change the lettering so it is white on a black background at night) so DH no longer needs to go to sleep with a pillow over his head because I've fallen asleep and left the bedside light on lol
And because its on my phone I always have a book with me which I love
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Hi Nay-DMAX
Thanks for the thread, well maybe not. Napanangka has now decided that we have to start putting our pennies aside so that we can buy one eventually. WE both love reading, and getting books out here in the desert is a challenge in itself.
Maybe what you could do Tjupurula is write a book, sell a copy each to all the Myswag members and use the profits to buy an e-reader! I'm not a betting man, but I bet you would sell a lot of books.
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Maybe what you could do Tjupurula is write a book, sell a copy each to all the Myswag members and use the profits to buy an e-reader! I'm not a betting man, but I bet you would sell a lot of books.
Hi Lino
Somehow I do not think such a book would be a big seller, as we do not have exctiing adventure filled lives, we live with our culture and customs, not a lot else.
Tjupurula
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Hi Lino
Somehow I do not think such a book would be a big seller, as we do not have exctiing adventure filled lives, we live with our culture and customs, not a lot else.
Tjupurula
There is so much about it that we don't know and most of us white fellas would not survive that life as we have not had the skills handed down like you have and still are. For you it is everyday life like my job and animals etc are to me but what I do so many other people do so it would not be an interesting book but not so many do what you do. ;)
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Hi Lino
Somehow I do not think such a book would be a big seller, as we do not have exctiing adventure filled lives, we live with our culture and customs, not a lot else.
Tjupurula
Would be good to hear some real culture and customs
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There is so much about it that we don't know and most of us white fellas would not survive that life as we have not had the skills handed down like you have and still are. For you it is everyday life like my job and animals etc are to me but what I do so many other people do so it would not be an interesting book but not so many do what you do. ;)
Hi Nay-DMAX
When you think about it though, there is not all that much involved. Tracking, hunting, reading animal sign, knowing various bush tucker and locating water, they are all pretty basic things. Most of our kids can do these things before they go to school, as they come out with us nearly every weekend, they watch and learn.
Admittedly when we travel we do so very light, as we know the tracks where we are going, where the water is, and always get a few lizards, snakes, maybe a roo and if lucky a bush turkey along the way, it really is not as hard as people think.
Regards
Tjupurula
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Would be good to hear some real culture and customs
You can always watch the various things on tv, we do not own one, but I have they are pretty good for make believe garbage. I will seriously give it some thought though. My apologies to the OP for going off topic.
Tjupurula
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Hi Lino
Somehow I do not think such a book would be a big seller, as we do not have exctiing adventure filled lives, we live with our culture and customs, not a lot else.
Tjupurula
I'd would buy your book, and put it on Nay-DMAX's e-reader!
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Youb can always watch the various things on tv, we do not own one, but I have they are pretty good for make believe garbage. I will seriously give it some thought though. My apologies to the OP for going off topic.
Tjupurula
No apologies needed it was still about books and reading really. I did not think when I started this post I would get this much information on the subject so very happy.
Hi Nay-DMAX
When you think about it though, there is not all that much involved. Tracking, hunting, reading animal sign, knowing various bush tucker and locating water, they are all pretty basic things. Most of our kids can do these things before they go to school, as they come out with us nearly every weekend, they watch and learn.
Admittedly when we travel we do so very light, as we know the tracks where we are going, where the water is, and always get a few lizards, snakes, maybe a roo and if lucky a bush turkey along the way, it really is not as hard as people think.
Regards
Tjupurula
Probably not hard but to people from the city it would be, like as much as you cannot stand the city you could probably get a feed in one but not many people who live in the city could get themselves a feed where you live. I think as long as people are happy with where they are that is what matters I have a job I really like and a few acres outside of a small country town, would I like to travel more of Aus? YES for sure and hope to get more chances for that but life is pretty good it is sad to hear how much some people hate there jobs and going to work. Hope you get an ereader one day or your hands on some more things to read. ;D
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I'd would buy your book, and put it on Nay-DMAX's e-reader!
I just thought of a good way to sell such a book. Put a photo of my head on the front cover, the shop owners would buy all the copies to get my face off their shelves, or they could use it for commercial pest control...I do have a face that would scare the maggots off a dead dingo, but then I was about 5 before dad managed to stop me chasing parked cars...only kidding.
Regards
Tjupurula
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My wife is on her fourth kindle, not very well made in my opinion.
Cheers
Big G
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Hi Jan thanks so much for commenting and for putting so much information in your post that was very helpful especially the information about loading books etc. I am the same I really like books and take a few if we go away not quite a bag full haha but usually at least 3 and just think it would be so much better to just have them all in one for travelling. I will see if I can find a store that has a few kindle options to have a play with as it looks like JB don't stock them but I think dick smith do. :cheers:
No worries, glad i could be of assistance. I forgot to say if you end up going with a kindle then all you have to do is set up an account at Amazon and all the books you download is stored there in your library forever. If you change kindles then you just download what books you want from your library, or all of them, it's your choice.
Jan
xxxx