E-Readers Vs Physical Books

I have always been a die hard fan of the traditional book that you can hold and snuggle up with at night. More recently, as a result of relocation of the Jade Empire HQ, I have been converted to the digital storage of books and the use of an e-reader. What are the pros and cons of both formats?

Traditional books will always feature in my life. They make you feel cosy and warm. When you turn the pages, you can smell the paper and often, borrowed books will harbour the lingering fragrance of the nearest and dearest who were kind enough to loan you their book. I love crawling into bed after a long day, and flicking through the pages; letting myself be completely absorbed into a fantasy world that has been created for me and stored in the pages. They also do not run out of battery, so you are able to continue reading regardless of how long you have been at it. However, my vast collection of fiction is forever increasing in size, and it has become impractical to move it around with me. A 450 mile relocation this month has meant that Jade HQ had to scale down and as leaving behind my favourite reads was not an option, digital storage. So, how have I been finding it? Well, I am currently re-reading the first Harry Potter book (An enjoyable read I like to indulge in once in a while) and will be reviewing this at a later date. I have to say, e-readers are very similar to reading the original paper form. Sometimes, I even forget I am not holding the book and that I am actually reading from a screen! The simplicity of the e-reader and with the E-Ink (r) Pearl display has actually made me forget I was not reading my paper copy of the book on several occasions. Having taken it around a bit, it has to be said that the e-reader weighs almost nothing and it's slimline design makes it very portable indeed. Disadvantages of the e-reader? Well, firstly I read quite quickly so am quickly reaching the bottom of the 'page' and needing to turn the page constantly. Secondly, e-readers are slightly less resilient to damage than a traditional book, and although I have always treated all my paperbacks with care and respect, this cannot be guaranteed when you are out so caution is needed.

My verdict? I am definitely glad I have been converted, although I will still be buying paper books occasionally too!