If you have an iPad, in many ways it is the ultimate e-reader, but if you are getting one just to use it as an e-reader, I think you aren't necessarily making the most informed choice. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE my iPad, but I use it for all kinds of things (writing emails, surfing the net on vacation, downloading pictures while I'm on vacation, my kids play games on it, etc). The reason you don't want an iPad if you just need an e-reader is firstly, it is far too expensive if you only need an e-reader, and secondly it is too heavy for an e-reader, and thirdly because it is backlit you cannot read it outside in the sun on the beach.
All those are the reasons I have a Kindle. I LOVE my Kindle too! Even though I love the tactile experience of holding a book, the reality is I read way too many books on vacation to make it practical to bring them along, making a Kindle the perfect solution. It is much cheaper than an iPad, and considerably lighter (making it a perfect travel companion). The other benefit is I don't have to pick all my books ahead of time. You turn you wifi off in order to conserve your battery (you only have to charge this thing every couple of weeks), and then when you want a new book you connect to wifi and browse through amazon. It's fantastic! Also e-books are cheaper than the print versions. The other great thing about my Kindle is even though I am loathe to admit it, I'm over 40 and my vision is failing me. I guess I'm super sensitive because I only require reading glasses with a magnification 1.5x, but reading with a Kindle makes the glasses unnecessary as you can simply magnify the text. Brilliant!
My tip to any Canadians who decide to get a Kindle is to get yourself an account on amazon.com . The reason is the selection of e-books is VASTLY different on amazon.com compared with amazon.ca (some kind of copywriter issues... blah blah blah). It's simple, go to amazon.com and create an address for yourself from any US address you have at your disposal, either family, friends, or even a favourite Gap store. Anything works! Browse around a little and you will understand what I mean. You may also want to get an account on amazon.uk as many titles are released in Europe before they are released in North America, and if you read French books look into amazon.fr .
First stop, buy your Kindle at: www.amazon.com , it ships internationally if required, and as I write this post it costs $108.00 USD for the most basic version (all you really need). There are different ones if you are interested in added features, check them out.
Happy reading!
One of my favourite indulgences.
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