
In this article he writes about the Kindle, a reading device available from Amazon for some time already, that allows you to store and read books via the device rather than actually buying the book.
The notion has always been anathema to me, but reading this article today, not only from the point of view of an avid purchaser of books, but also from the point of view of authors, I am no longer so certain.
What do you think?
Random thoughts about the Kindle
Might be of interest to investors, readers, writers, designers, marketers, etc. Or not...
Two months ago, I got a Kindle. It's a fascinating device, unlike almost any other launched by a significant tech company. Here's why:
1. It's for women and women are buying it. The bestseller list of Kindle titles is much less tech-heavy than Amazon's list was in the early days of the web. An Oprah book is #1. And the colors and feel of the machine don't feel like the current uber-geek tech dream device. barnacles
This is a fascinating strategy. It means that typical technology marketing and adoption strategies aren't in play, since most tech devices go after nerdy men. It means a slower start (since paying $400 for technology is a stretch unless it's your passion) but also possibly a much bigger finish.
2. I just got rid of 3,000 books in preparation for an office move. That's two decades worth of reference books. I realized that most of the books I bought I didn't use any more (thanks to wikipedia and google) and that buying books in anticipation of giving them to someone else was generous but not actually happening in practice. For the tiny slice of readers that account for a huge pile of book sales (300 books a year adds up), moving those purchases to the Kindle is smart for Amazon and smart for the reader. read more
Absolutely FANTABULOUS!!!! I love it. I want one. The future looks hopeful for writers. It's been worth it to work hard to develop my writing skills!
ReplyDeleteWow!
Thanks for the injection of inspiration!
Brenda
Yes!!
ReplyDeleteI want one too. But I still want to keep my books ... I love looking at them.
I am a book nut as well, but I love this idea. I heard about it recently and it does seem they are getting to grips with the pricing and design issues. To be able to carry my library around with me as I travelled instead of having to pre-decide what I was going to be able to take or having to rely on bookshops at airports etc would be fab. I would also be able to instantly buy a sequel to a book I had really enjoyed. I think it’s a great idea and sooner or later someone will get it right.
ReplyDelete