The curse of paper books and the danger of e-books
Tuesday, April 1, 2025 at 08:46AM
It’s been a book I’ve long wanted to re-read.* But I put if off since it has not been published in the Kindle format, let alone offered by my public library on Libby.
I did find a copy of Harry Combs Brules in the Internet Archive and started reading it there. But I found the “reader” almost impossible to use on my iPad. The book couldn’t be downloaded and it didn’t make sense to just read it on my laptop.
So I broke down and bought the paperback version. And boy, do I regret it.
I had forgotten just what a pain in the butt reading a fat, heavy, stiff, small print publication can be. I have to have my reading glasses. I have to have really good light. I have to remember to bring the damn thing with me when I leave the house if I want to read it somewhere other than in my recliner. I have to rest my wrists and fingers now and then.
Reading on my phone, my iPad, and my Kindle has really spoiled me. Synchronization among devices (The last location read is _____. Go there?) Customizable font size. Back lighting. Instant definitions of unknown words. No crowded book shelves. No visits to the physical library for pick up or return. No overdues. Yes, I have to keep the devices charged, but it is a small price to pay for the ease with which they allow me to read.
Way, way back in 1995, I wrote a column called "The Future of Books" in which I complained about the shortcomings of print books and speculated on the positive possibilities of e-books. Considering it was 30 years ago, I didn’t do too bad.
Even though I have been an avid reader all my life, I wonder just how much reading I would be doing today in my dotage were it not for ebooks. Yet another case of technology’s subtle invasion and control over our lives. It won’t be killer robots that will lead to our species extinction, but the denial of technological services of a rebellious AI subspecies.
*The book’s content has not aged well. Extremely violent and rather slow paced, it’s not just the format that making Brules a tough read.
