Amazon Releases New Version of the Kindle

Check out the Kindle2 at Amazon!

Amazon is releasing a slimmer version of the Kindle. Kindle is an electronic reading device that you can download books onto. Kindle2 features a wide variety of new features; such as: longer battery life, more storage, and improved display.  The device is small enough to fit in your purse so you can have access your reading library anytime, anywhere. So if you’re waiting in line at the DMV, you can whip out that Kindle and start reading rather than stand in line bored. The Kindle price is a mere $359.

I’ve heard some really good reviews for the original Kindle from the people who could afford to purchase one. It’s convenient, the lighting is good, the books are priced right etc. But I have many problems with the Kindle. First, I like books. I love cuddling in bed or the couch with a good bed. Laying on the couch with an electronic device seems perverse and wrong. I like brand new books and opening the spine for the first time; I like feeling like I’m on a brand new adventure with a new book. I like old books and love the leathery feel of the cover; I love knowing that people have read this book before me and will after me. The power of time within a novel, whether new or used, is meaningful and, for me, it’s hard to imagine the same feeling by turning on the Kindle.

Another reason that I do not like the Kindle is the price. $359 for reading device is a lot of money to spend! I don’t have that kind of cash laying around begging me to try an electronic device that I’ve never used or seen live before. And I don’t think that I’m alone. I’d rather go to a used book store, swap a book or pony up the full price for a brand new book…all of it is cheaper than the Kindle.

I will admit that I’m a bit old-school when it comes to books. I would not, for example, even listen to a book on CD for years. I was dead set against it; but then in college I had 4 novels to read in a week and I just couldn’t do it. So I found the book on CD from the library and listened to it in my car on the way to school. I was able to get through all the books and my car ride wasn’t quite so boring. Also, some of the performances on the CD’s were enthralling and highly entertaining. So I caved and become a fan of the books on CDs.

For today, I’m sticking with paper. I’m not saying I won’t ever own a reading device or I’m a 100% against them. If someone is willing to give me one for free, I would take it. However, I can’t imagine a reading device completely replacing books. I like books. I still write letters and stories by hand because I think there is something authentic and creative about writing on paper. On the other hand, I write on my laptop, too. I imagine there is a place for the old and new. In this new world of technology, you have both.