My New Love Affair: The Nook

So, it's been a while since I had a post about myself. I do intend to continue the book review postings. In fact, next week I have up to bat: Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins, Fallen by Lauren Kate, and Serpent Moon by C.T. Adams and Cathy Clamp. But, in between my reviews, I'd also like to have general posts on my reading and writing habits. And here is a big one about reading.

I LOVE MY NEW NOOK.

Look at that. It's an update so important in my mind, it deserves it's own paragraph and all capital letters. In all seriousness though, I have been downloading ebooks to my computer for the last year, but I never really considered buying an ereader.

Why? Several reasons.
One: The cost. Seriously, if I had an extra $300 bucks to throw around, an ereader is not at the top of my wishlist. A one-way ticket to Europe, maybe. A large payment to my student loan debt, sure. Taking two weeks off from work to just write and catch up on sleep, bingo.

Two: I didn't really think of it as a necessity. I don't travel as much as I would like. I don't take extended vacations. The best that I manage is a long weekend, and in that case, I don't need more than 3 books. Plus, I like the sensory feeling of reading a book; I like flipping the pages and studying the cover. I like having an overflowing bookcase.

Three: I was burned by the IPod, and the scars have never gone away. I bought one as soon as it came out, and a year later, it was only useful as a coaster. If anyone asked, my advice was a straight-up: Never buy first generation electronics. This usually goes for Mac products, but it tends to bleed over onto other things as well. I just KNEW that I would have a huge issue with the Kindle, if I anted up for one.

But, then 2010 came along. I have two trips lined up that will mean longer travel times, airport waits and hotel room stays. Those are pretty much the times that I need extra reading materials. And, for once, I wanted to have a HOT NEW THING. So, I did some research. I ended up buying the Nook over the Kindle, though the race was close.

And it was the fact that I have access to the whole B&N library for sample reading, while I am inside the store, that gave the Nook the edge. I spend much time, and I mean MUCH time, inside several of the closest Barnes and Noble locations to where I live. I usually go there to write; it's funny how my productivity increases by 50%, just by being outside of my house. But, this was exciting news for me! Now, I have another way to procrastinate, and put off writing! In a place, where I specifically go to write! Hooray!

Anyway, I have downloaded several new books to my library, and a few old favorites. I've even downloaded several books that I already have in print. But see now, having the ebook version frees up the print version to be signed. Because, I don't actually read the books that have had a lucky run-in with their author. Those go on the Shelf That Is Really A Shrine.

Until Next Read,
AliseOnLife