Do you prefer reading a paperback or an eBook? Why? That question was posed to me as the secret subject of this blogging group. I submitted a Facebook survey and appreciated the 148 responses. I have condensed those reasons below.
61 responses
One person said that research has shown that people who read 'real' books absorb more information. Thinking on that, I tend to agree. When I read an eBook, my mind tends to wander -- no idea why. My preference is paperback and until this survey, I didn't fully understand why.
Many of the responses had to do with our senses: smell and touch. People like to smell the print and hold the book in their hands, turning pages as they read. Another reason was that you cannot have a digital book autographed and you don't have the option of loaning out your favorite ones for your friends to read. I was surprised to learn that most Millennials prefer hard copy.
Paperback books have their individual look, feel, and design. Some of our books may be coffee stained or have earmarked pages or margin notes of special significance. Personally I enjoy glancing at the book title of what someone is reading in a public place. It can tell me something about the reader before striking up a conversation.
It is also unlikely someone will steal your book but a Kindle could attract a potential thief. Personally, holding a physical book in my hands feels more welcoming and nostalgic than staring at an electronic device - something which I have to do most of the day, every day.
eBook
53 Responses
The main reason regarding eBook preference was convenience. The ability to travel with one device instead of numerous books was number one. Many people like reading more than one book at a time.
The ability to purchase and download a complete book in minutes from anywhere in the world or your bedroom on an early weekend morning ranked high on the list. Having the option to adjust the font size, anti-glare, and screen resolution was another.
Of course, there is the environmental issue of less paper!
Personally, I am old-school enough to have a great appreciation for the hand-written thank-you card in snail mail. Doesn't happen too often but it is heart-warming.
Both
34 Responses
Those who did not have a preference use both methods of reading for the same reasons as cited above. Traveling with more than one book without the added weight was the number one reason.
To answer my fellow blogger Rena who asked "Do you prefer paperback or eBook and why," I enjoyed this challenge and reading all 148 responses. My question to you is - what is your preference? Please have a look at the other secret subjects that were discussed this week and join us for the fun.
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