Print vs. e-book

My previous posts have focused on kitting.  I know that when I started this blog, I wanted to write about knitting and other topics.  Therefore, this post is about something not knitted.

Quick, pick one:  a printed book, or an e-book.

Which did you choose?

The good old fashion made of paper printed book, or the newfangled e-book which is readable on an electronic device?

I pick printed book!

I thoroughly enjoy the heft of a printed book.  I even like the smell of the ink and paper.  I like the idea that I can lend or give my book to anyone who can read without having to worry if they have a certain device or platform.

I find the printed book to be more convenient.  It does not require batteries.  As long as I have a light source, natural or manufactured, I can read it.

A printed book is very versatile   In addition to its main function of maintaining written information it can function as a doorstop, a paperweight, a weapon.  It can support a bookshelf and other pieces of furniture.  It can be altered into a work of art.  In a pinch you can soak up spilled liquids with its pages, use the pages as a toilet paper substitute, and should you ever need it, burn it for heat. (which, by the way, is the only acceptable reason to burn a book)

You can dry out the wet book (just freeze it first).  You can taped it, stapled it and glue it back together.

Try any of that with your e-book and electronic device!

And if you lose your printed book, or it isn't returned, it's much cheaper to replace the lost volume (unless it's your own personal copy of the Gutenberg Bible)

I am not a complete Luddite.  I have read a few novels on an e-reader device.

I found the endless tapping to turn the page annoying.  I did, however, like the idea of changing font size.  You really have to be middle aged to appreciate this.

I am also aware that my e-book purchases are tracked so that in event that my e-reader is lost, stolen or broken, that I can purchase another device and have access to my "library."  I can, if I want, "share" my e-books with others who have the correct e-reader platform.

Yet, these experiences (yes, I've read more than one novel on an e-reader) had only deepened my appreciation of the printed on paper book.

I firmly stand on the side of printed on paper books.

Now please excuse me while I go work on my novel which shall be published electronically.