I received my Amazon Kindle in the mail yesterday and I am amazed, to say the least. I will say without hesitation that this is the greatest technological masterpiece since the iPod. As with most “first release” technology, I was somewhat reluctant to purchase a Kindle because of the cost and the realization that these things usually get better on the 3rd or 4th release, but I’m happy I pulled the trigger.
As one who reads a lot of books, I run into the unfortunate problem of not having enough shelf space for all of them. It borders on sin in my book to have good theological works in boxes, so the Kindle gives me the opportunity to have the text, in a readable format, that doesn’t get stowed away in a manner that is hard to access. As a pastor, I think it will be very helpful in preaching. I can upload .txt files to the Kindle, thus allowing me to put my sermon notes on it and bring it into the pulpit instead of 8 or 9 printed pages.
The Kindle, through some remarkable technology, is very easy on the eyes and reads exactly like a book or newspaper as opposed to a computer screen. I don’t know how it works, and was somewhat skeptical at first, but it’s absolutely true. With this technology, the screen is actually easier to read with more light, as opposed to any type of LCD that is on other handheld devices or computers. As I read in bed, I use my reading light the same as I would with a printed book in hand.
The compact size makes it very practical — and as one who has a book with him wherever he goes, that is a very important component. It will be a good travel companion. I can store up to 200 books on the Kindle alone, and am also able to insert an SD memory card that allows for more storage space. You can also upload background music to listen to while you read, receive daily newspapers, magazines, and blogs and do basic internet functions. The Kindle works on a “whispernet” system, which uses signals from cellphone towers, not wifi. Therefore, the internet access (mostly used in the Amazon store) is completely free and easy to access at any time.
If you have considered getting a Kindle, I highly recommend it. If you haven’t heard of the Kindle, go to the website and check it out (watch the video). It’s worth your time and, if you read a lot of books like me, the cheap downloads will, over time, be worth your money as well.
Filed under: Books, Opinion, Personal, Review, Uncategorized
Wow! This seems like it could be a good tool for people like me who are trying to improve on reading skills. However, the price is pretty high. I think I’m in the “wait for the next version and until the price drops” camp.
I’m still trying to figure out my 8-track….
Micah,
I had your attitude for a long time. Finally, Amazon did drop the price by $50. I was in the process of shoveling out 30 years of living in the same house and the number of books stored around the house was appalling. Gettng a handle on how much living space “worthless” paperbacks were consuming and would continue to consume, made me bite the bullet.
I have not regretted my decision. Not only am I carrying around 100 or so books in my pocket, so to speak, but even when I’m finished with them, an SD card takes up much less space than a book! And, the Kindle is actually fun to use!
Deb,
The Kindle is easier to use than most other modern and not so modern technology. If you can switch the channels on your TV, you can use a Kindle.
I had never heard of one of these things until your post… i want one… i’m trying to find if there is a way to see what books are currently available so I can tell how practical it really is…
@Cillasi: Thanks for your response — I agree with what you’re saying. The Kindle if fun and quite easy to use. It also has a lot of great bonus features that I’m really digging (music, etc.)
@Brandon: You can go on Amazon.com and check out the section entitled “Kindle Books.” There are also separate sections for magazines and blogs. This was something I was wondering about as well, but am very surprised about the great selection. Every new book that comes out seems to have a Kindle edition, and many many old ones that I searched for had already made the change over as well — good stuff!
Besides the books you can purchase on amazon, there are several websites where you can download many of the “classics” free because they’re out of copyright. Feedbooks.com is one of the easier ones to use. Amazon also almost always has a title or two available for free. I’ve probably downloaded 30 free books so far in the month I’ve had my Kindle.
Thanks for the resource meemo. I’m downloading my new books from Feedbook right now!
I love my Kindle. In addition to books and personal/work related documents, I’ve also downloaded the Bible, the US Constitution and the Bill of Rights, all for free. It’s nice having them handy when discussions arise.
I’ve always been an avid reader, but find myself reading far more with my Kindle. It makes reading more pleasant. Also the PDF conversion capablitity allowed to finally start reading all the free PDF books I had accumulated but not read (many of John Piper’s and other authors books are put out in free PDF versions. Not to mention http://www.ccel.org)
Considering the access to free books I have I consider the Kindle a bargain!
The Kindle is actually quite classy; it’s like a convergence of old school and new school technology