Amazon Kindle (and other e-readers) [Archive]

ee_chick

10-26-2008, 05:08 PM

I have one and I absolutely love, love, love it. I do a fair amount of travel, and being able to a lightweight solution for carrying multiple books is fantastic. I miss the smell and feel of a book sometimes, but the Kindle is very easy on the eyes, very easy to get into a reading rhythm with and very flexible. I love that I can get the latest giant "hardback only" book for $9.99 and read it in bed without struggling to find a comfortable position. :)

laura

10-26-2008, 05:16 PM

j*east

10-26-2008, 05:28 PM

My mom loves hers. I'm more into library and used books, so I'll be holding off for a while...but if you have the $$ to buy it and the materials for it, it seems pretty cool.

adamseve

10-26-2008, 05:28 PM

I just finished watching Oprah and fell in-love with it. We live in a 2 bedroom condo which is limited in space. So, I always have a problem with storing my books. Plus, my carry-on is always so heavy from all of the books I like to pack on trips. Oprah's website has a code for $50 off for the next week. I'm thinking of putting it on my Christmas wish list but wanted to get some feedback from real users.

Thanks for your input!

adamseve

10-26-2008, 05:30 PM

I'm more into library and used books.

This is my other problem. I've recently found an independent bookstore which I love supporting and I live across the street from the library ... but I love the idea of having such easy access to books for a discounted price. And, it does save paper.

ee_chick

10-26-2008, 05:31 PM

This is on my bday list (in 2 weeks). I think it will be really great for travel, as well as my daily commute. However, now that Oprah just announced it as her new "favorite thing", I'm a little concerned I won't be able to get one. Cursed Oprah!! :p

I got mine in March, when the wait was still six to eight weeks. I was not very patient at all, but it was worth the wait. I love the fact that you can get a sample of the books before you buy. I probably had 40 samples ordered and ready for delivery by the time my Kindle arrived.

Jennifer

10-28-2008, 01:23 PM

I really love mine. I travel a lot and it is fantastic not to have 4 books in my carry-on, to be able to buy a new book easily if I'm traveling - I used to buy a ton of books I wasn't very interested in, because choices in airports were so limited - and I love that I can keep buying books and don't have to find the storage space! Honestly while it's a pricey gadget - I used to buy a ton of new hardbacks and buying those same books for my Kindle that I'd normally have purchased has already paid for the Kindle since I got it this spring.

I'm hooked!

j*east

10-28-2008, 03:07 PM

This is my other problem. I've recently found an independent bookstore which I love supporting and I live across the street from the library ... but I love the idea of having such easy access to books for a discounted price. And, it does save paper.

That was my creative way of saying, "I don't have the money for a kindle right now!" :)

BethS0103

02-16-2009, 10:06 AM

Ummm

02-16-2009, 09:59 PM

I love the concept of the Kindle, but since I'm someone who doesn't like to spend a whole lotta money on books and would rather check them out at the library, I can't get past the fact that you can't "borrow" books and always have to buy them.

So for those of you who have Kindles, what do you think of them? Have you always bought books in the past? If you were a library person like me, how did you resign yourself to having to pay for books all the time (no matter how much cheaper they are than print books)?

ditto.

i think if i travel a lot, a kindle would work great.

plus i much prefer reading a book than on a computer, so i don't know if i'd like a kindle (haven't seen one so don't know how it compares reading on it vs reading on the computer... i know you can hand held it but just the fact you read on screen).

Owl

02-17-2009, 05:26 AM

I have the Sony PRS-700. It is an ebook reader similar to the Kindle. I did a ton of research, and waited for the Kindle 2 to come out before I chose which one I wanted.

The main advantage of the Kindle is that you can download books from anywhere via their wireless. The main disadvantage (in my mind) is that it is almost exclusively locked to Amazon content. It can display a few other things though.

I chose the Sony because it supports many more file formats, including Adobe Digital Editions and EPUB which is apparently becoming the industry standard. You can buy ebooks from other retailers online. You can also read books from Project Gutenburg etc. I believe some libraries are starting programs where you can check-out ebooks. I will be researching this soon! I think it just puts an expiration on that book, after which you can no longer read it.

If you are interested in getting an ebook you should check out this comparison chart: http://wiki.mobileread.com/wiki/E-book_Reader_Matrix

I'm so excited about my new reader! :)

boilermaker

02-17-2009, 05:30 AM

Now that my library started their e-books program, I am much more interested in one of these. Thanks for that link Owl.

BethIrish

02-17-2009, 05:49 AM

I have had my Kindle since December and I adore it. Honestly, and I'm not exaggerating, I've forgotten that I'm reading an ebook on occasion and gone to turn the page ;)

I commute via public transportation for 2 hours a day and love the portability of it. I also absolutely adore the fact that I can download anytime, anywhere.

One thing I do miss is the ability to share books with my Mom, but I'm trying to get her on board with the Kindle. If she gets one we can share an account & share books :)

BethS0103

02-17-2009, 06:43 AM

I've also been checking out e-books through my library and syncing them to my palm pilot. The only problem is, my library doesn't have the best variety of e-books.

If Kindle could find a way to use different file formats and work with libraries so people could check out books, I would so be on board.

meganth

02-18-2009, 05:42 AM

I'm highly considering getting one of these. I love reading but have stopped buying books because it started to seem so wasteful to me. I also love walking through the library, but the thought of holding up a Kindle instead of a 1000 page book seems appealing!

How is the selection with these devices? Are all books available or just certain ones?

And there's probably no way to check out the Kindle before you buy it, is there?

My library doesn't offer e-books. I think i might contact them to see if they're planning on it though because that might affect what i buy.

Owl

02-19-2009, 05:27 AM

You can find free ebooks on http://www.gutenberg.org most of these are text format and can be read on pretty much anything, Palm, computer, ebook reader etc.

You can also buy books at http://www.fictionwise.com and http://www.ebooks.com

It looks like Borders is supporting the Sony readers, so I hope they start selling eboosk for that soon!

It takes a bit of research to know what formats your reader will support. You can look at that chart I posted earlier to get an idea.

I'm still hoping I can find an online library I can join and check out ebooks from. I'd even pay a membership fee if it was reasonable.

steelcitymama

02-19-2009, 11:11 AM

great thread - i LOVE the idea of a kindle / equivalent, but like some of the others have mentioned, i'm a library girl. :) i mainly read fiction and i'm a really fast reader, so i hate buying books because it seems so wasteful for my purposes. it's one of the things i'm a total cheapskate about. however, we recently moved to a small town and the library selection is super limited, so i'm considering it more. i just wish i could justify the cost - both upfront and ongoing.

rubyredslippers

02-19-2009, 12:44 PM

The cost is what is stopping me. I am not sure I can be trusted with a device that can download a book the instant I think I need it. I might end up in the poorhouse. :D

steelcitymama

02-19-2009, 01:59 PM

The cost is what is stopping me. I am not sure I can be trusted with a device that can download a book the instant I think I need it. I might end up in the poorhouse. :D

totally agree!

AmyE

02-19-2009, 06:25 PM

If I had a good library nearby, I wouldn't be interested in the Kindle or equivalent. We used to live near an outstanding, amazing library and would check out 10 books at a time. Heaven.

Now that we live where we don't have access to a library, we've started with Kindle. However, it's more fragile than we expected. I accidentally dropped it (like they did in the video, actually, only in my case it froze the kindle). Amazon replaced that one, but the replacement didn' t work. we're now waiting for our second replacement.

OTOH - Amazon really wants to make it a good experience, we can tell. They refunded all of our money and even the amount we spent on buying the books. HOpefully this next one will work. DH and I both travel a lot too, and this will reduce our luggage by a couple of pounds per trip!

looch

02-20-2009, 11:50 AM

steelcitymama

02-20-2009, 12:03 PM

our library in our small town has a VERY limited selection....it stinks because the library in the city where we're from is excellent...you could get anything. but there is no intra-library lending here and the selection is total crap. i still can't justify the cost, though....maybe it's something i'll start setting aside some funds for.

am_81

02-20-2009, 12:05 PM

I am getting a Kindle, soon I hope! My parents ordered it for me for Christmas and it hasn't arrived yet. I am excited to get it because I live abroad, i just hope the downloads and stuff work from here!

To be honest, if I were living in the states, I wouldn't bother with it, I would just use the local library. Now with the intra-library loans, there's nothing they can't get.

I was actually thinking about getting a Kindle a while back because books are ridiculously expensive here and my luggage is insane from stocking up every time we go home, but someone told me that it wasnt supported outside the US. I just checked the main page and all I saw is that it wasnt *shipped* outside the US. Although, I thought for some reason that AmyE lived abroad too . . . or maybe I'm thinking of the wrong poster?

Must investigate further . . . .

ETA -- After some quick googling, it looks like the wireless feature wont work outside the US (the network amazon uses is only available in the States), but if you download the e-books through amazon.com, you can use a USB cable to transfer the purchases to the Kindle. It looks like the only catch is that you have to have a US credit card with a US billing address, which we actually do have. We changed most of our account addresses, but DH has a Zipex box through work so we kept our banking address as that one.

looch

02-20-2009, 12:44 PM

Thanks for doing that research, am_81!

My Kindle is getting delivered to my parent's house in the states, and then my mom will bring it over when she visits in April. I still have American bank accounts and credit cards, so that won't be an issue. It was a total surprise that they ordered it for me, so it would really be disappointing if I couldn't use it!

am_81

02-20-2009, 01:06 PM

No problem . . . . although knowing this may be kinda dangerous. I hadnt even considered getting one before since I thought it wasnt an option, but now I'm seriously coveting! :D

AmyE

02-20-2009, 05:51 PM

Excellent memory am_81! Yes, I do live abroad. we had it shipped to a US address and then forwarded to us. We also used the credit card with teh US billing address to order. (The other way to do it would be to buy a gift certificate for Amazon services with any credit card, then use that gift cert to buy the Kindle.) The wireless network features won't work, but we easily downloaded the books from the website to our computer, then to the Kindle using the USB cable. It's very quick.

For us it will end up saving us money, since we do spend sooooo much money on English language books where we are now.

I will say that when we've spoken to Amazon support services, we've just said that we are outside the wireless network and use the USB to download. No one has questioned it any further.:D

looch

03-04-2009, 07:57 AM

There's now an app for iphone called Kindle, and it allows you to send books to your iphone via Amazon. I just tried it and it works on my overseas network. You don't even need a Kindle for this service.

I don't know how it's going to be reading a whole book on the iphone vs. the kindle, I can do that comparison in a month.

laura

03-16-2009, 01:29 PM

I got the kindle app too. It's nice for waiting rooms and places I may not have my kindle. I love how it syncs content between both.

I have figured out the one thing I don't like about my kindle - my office is located in a sprint dead zone so I can't download content while I'm at work, and it is so annoying. Clearly not a huge crisis, just annoying to me personally.

chiclady815

03-17-2009, 07:11 AM

I just got the Kindle 2 after seeing my boss's Kindle 1. I was not sure that I would like it at all, but after seeing hers, I'm in love. I simply love the convenience of it. I work full time and have a six month old little boy so it's not as easy as it once was to pop out to pick up a new book. Now I can download it in seconds! It's easy to read and so far so good. Anyway, those are my thoughts.

My only complaint about it is that I can't seem to figure out how to access my Amazon wish list through the kindle store. That would be great because I keep my list of books I want to read online so I have to do a lot of my downloading from the computer. Truly, it's a minor complaint and barely worth mentioning.

scarlett

03-26-2009, 01:56 PM

I read through this thread about a month ago and decided to give ebooks a try. I looked up my library's ebook formats and downloaded the appropriate software onto my computer and my Palm Centro. It was a total PITA. Mostly due to Vista on my laptop. But anyway, I got it all installed but wasn't sure I'd ever use it.

I went out of town last week and at kind of the last minute checked out 2 eBooks from the library and put them on my phone. OMG, it was awesome. At first it was a little weird reading from such a small screen, but after a while, you don't even notice, you just push the down button without thinking about it (like you do when you turn a page of a real book). I'm sure that the app on my phone is not the best available, but I'm kind of limited to it right now since that's the format my library is supplying eBooks.

So, anyway, thank you everyone who contributed to this thread. EBooks are great.

daener

05-14-2009, 06:49 PM

I was on a business trip this week and traveled with someone who had a Kindle...I had been doubtful, but just fell in love. Ordered it today...and can't wait to have it in time for my trip next weekend. I love, love, love that you can order a book anytime, anywhere and NEVER be out of books to read. Plus, with the newspapers and mags you can subscribe to. I fought this urge for so long and now can't wait to play, too!!

Myra

06-05-2009, 12:25 PM

BethIrish

06-05-2009, 12:28 PM

Can a non-gadget person like the Kindle? I was thinking of it as a birthday/Father's Day/get well gift for my father. He is totally computer literate but is not into gadgets like ipods and blackberries. He reads a lot and has many doctor's appointments, so I thought it might be good for waiting rooms, etc.

My Mom is borrowing mine next time I see her to make sure she *really* likes it - but she's as non-gadgety as they come and wants one. She played with mine the week she was here babysitting and really liked it :)

It's not hard to figure out at all.

laura

06-05-2009, 12:38 PM

My parents are not tech savvy but they were both really into my Kindle when I showed it to them. They were especially excited that they could get a subscription to the "the digest". ;) (Reader's Digest)

bookworm

06-05-2009, 03:26 PM

Can a non-gadget person like the Kindle?

Hell yes. My mom hasn't figured out how to use the DVD player yet, but she *loves* her Kindle.

j*east

06-05-2009, 03:37 PM

Hell yes. My mom hasn't figured out how to use the DVD player yet, but she *loves* her Kindle.

Same here. :)

Jennifer

06-28-2009, 11:28 AM

Same here - this is a very "non gadget" sort of gadget! I'm really slow to embrace new technology and this one took me about 30 seconds to fall in love with!

TerpsFan

08-21-2009, 05:36 AM

Bumping this up...

My mom has a Kindle and LOVES it. I tried it out and really like it to. We love to share books and she wants to get me one for my birthday. In the research I've done, it seems the only way to share books is for all Kindles to be on the same account. My mom has the account and is willing to put me on there and just reimburse whatever I buy...she knows I am good for it :-)

What is your experience with multiple Kindles on 1 account? Any tips?

Jennifer

08-24-2009, 01:22 PM

I like having more than one on - my husband is on my account and I'm putting my mom on when she gets her kindle this fall - the only tip is if you shop on the computer you need to use your mom's Amazon log in and password instead of your own when you buy books and pick which Kindle you want to send them too. You can go back into the purchased history and send anything your mom already bought (or vice versa) to your Kindle too.

Seems funny to give a bunch of people my amazon log in - but heck - it's nice to share books!

Bloomwood

09-08-2009, 02:30 PM

My DH got the Kindle DX a few weeks ago and then gave me a Kindle 2 for my bday this weekend. It's pretty cool, but I think I might want the DX for the size - bigger screen. Any thoughts??

laura

09-08-2009, 02:37 PM

I have the original kindle and I like the size b/c it fits in my purse easily so I always have it when I'm out running errands, commuting, etc. I don't think I would want the bigger one, personally, but it probably depends on your primary uses for it.

ee_chick

09-08-2009, 04:24 PM

I'm with Laura. I have a first generation kindle, and it's perfectly sized to take with me where ever I go. When I first got it, I thought it would be too small, but once you get into a groove and flipping pages becomes second nature it works just fine.

Bloomwood

09-08-2009, 04:27 PM

I just spent 45 minutes reading on it and it's great. I actually think his larger sized DX would be bothersome. I'm with you both. Thanks. I can't wait to try it at the gym.

seattleguamgirl

09-08-2009, 08:32 PM

I want a Kindle but I was wondering if I could download ebooks from the library to it? I know you can do that with the Sony eReader but I've heard better things about the Kindle so I've been leaning towards getting that.

laura

09-09-2009, 10:02 AM

You can, but you have to re-format them I think. And there might be a third party app to get them on the kindle. I read about it, but I haven't tried it.

solongtogo

10-26-2009, 10:54 AM

Does anyone own a kindle? Do you like it...is it worth the money?

laura

10-26-2009, 11:02 AM

Yes I have one and I like it and I think it's worth the money. My husband was skeptical but he got me one for my bday b/c I asked for it, and then he was jealous so now he has one too. The true benefit of the device is the store, though, IMO, so obviously it's more costly than regular books if you use the library or used/borrowed books a lot. I always ask for Amazon GCs for all gift giving occasions, though, and I have probably only paid for 1 or 2 books b/c I always seem to have a gift card balance.

There's a thread about kindles somewhere else - maybe electronic devices?

bookworm

10-26-2009, 04:20 PM

Yes, love it, and it's absolutely worth the $ if you travel or always buy books. I still use the library at home, but when I have to travel for work it's far away, for a long time, and to countries where I can't get English language books. My mom was the pioneer in my family; now we all have them (or borrow them to take on vacations).

Sazoo

10-28-2009, 07:37 AM

Does anyone have any experience with the various e-reader devices that are out there these days? Amazon's Kindle, Barnes & Noble's Nook, Sony's E-Reader (or whatever theirs is called), etc?

I'm intrigued by the idea and am thinking of asking for a Kindle for Christmas, but I am curious what other users think of it, and how it compares to other e-readers on the market.

endymion411

10-28-2009, 08:10 AM

i know that there is a thread about the kindle already (http://www.constantchatter.com/forum/showthread.php?t=43718), but i would be interested in hearing if people have opionions on the other brands

laura

10-28-2009, 10:19 AM

When I got my Kindle, I read up a lot about Sonys and it seems that people prefer the easy to use non-Amazon content aspect of other e-readers, but overall people who had Sonys and Kindles liked the Kindles more. Except for the content part - but that doesn't bother me. I don't know anything about the B&N version; I think that came out after I got my Kindle.

endymion411

10-28-2009, 11:19 AM

[QUOTE=laura;1956258]When I got my Kindle, I read up a lot about Sonys and it seems that people prefer the easy to use non-Amazon content aspect of other e-readers, QUOTE]

this is the part that i'm stuck on. i want to be able to get e-books from my library, for example

laura

10-28-2009, 11:21 AM

endymion411

10-29-2009, 06:47 AM

My understanding is that you CAN, you just have to get a third party software (free online) to convert the content so it's readable by the Kindle. At least that's my understanding - but I've never done it.

i hadn't heard that, so i'm glad you wrote this. i will definitely have to look into that!

laura

10-29-2009, 10:14 AM

I think I read it in the Kindle reviews on Amazon, but I'm not positive.

steelcitymama

11-25-2009, 11:25 AM

hi, ladies - i had a kindle question. two, actually. i was curious about the feature of being able to read blogs via the kindle. how does that work exactly? are there add'l fees for that?

also, the main reason i want to get a kindle is because for most of the year, i live in a rural area that has a teeny library and i can't ever get my hands on the books i want to read. however, on the coverage map, it shows my area as having no coverage. grrr! but it also says that the map may differ dramatically from what is actually available. i'm planning on calling them to ask if they have any add'l information. i guess my question is, if i downloaded books when i was in an area with coverage, i could still read them at home (non - covered area), right?

laura

11-25-2009, 11:31 AM

I don't know about the blogs, but I can address your second question. Yes, if you d/l books in a covered area, you can read them in a non-coverage area. Once you d/l the book it is "local" to your kindle - you don't need a connection to access it after that. You can also purchase books via Amazon and 'send' them wirelessly or via cable connection to your kindle. So if you are at home and you want a new Kindle book, you can purchase it online on Amazon and then connect your Kindle to your computer and transfer the book that way.

steelcitymama

11-25-2009, 12:36 PM

laura - oh GREAT! thanks for the info. so if i truly have no coverage where i live, i could just download to my laptop, hook up the kindle via usb and then transfer and read on the kindle? i know that's what you just said, i'm just making sure i understood correctly before i request the kindle from my parents for christmas. :)

laura

11-25-2009, 12:51 PM

Yep, that's correct.

IIRC, the Kindle runs on someone's wireless network, I think it might be Sprint's? So if you have Sprint cell coverage in your area, that might be helpful in determining whether the wireless will work at your house. But don't quote me on that, it could be the wrong network.

boilermaker

11-25-2009, 01:25 PM

My brother and I are getting my Mom one of the e-readers for Christmas. I put him in charge of all the research as to which one since he is even more a tech geek than I am. But I have to admit that I am super excited to get my hands on it that day to see if I want one as well :)

Sazoo

11-26-2009, 01:12 PM

seattleguamgirl

11-29-2009, 01:32 PM

Sazoo

11-29-2009, 04:57 PM

Has anyone seen the Nook from Barnes & Noble? It looks like it will give the Kindle some serious competition. I like that you can swap books with friends with Nooks over a 14 day period and you can download eBooks from the library...it looks like it has features the Kindle doesn't (which are features I really want).I was at B&N on Friday and a salesperson told me the Nook isn't in stock yet - in fact, he said he hadn't even seen one yet himself. All they had was a brochure. I was kind of surprised...figured they'd want to launch it before the holiday shopping season! *shrug*

ejs

11-29-2009, 06:48 PM

seattleguamgirl

12-06-2009, 11:02 AM

I have the Kindle2 and I love it. I don't need the Nook's features. Very few of my friends have e-readers, so I don't need to trade books with people. I don't want a touchscreen because I'm sure it would get filthy.

You can also share books with friends on their iPhones if they have the free B&N application. I don't know, I saw this comparison and the features the nook offers are benefits to me. You can see the comparison chart here:

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/nook/compare/?cds2Pid=30195

And I wouldn't mind a touch screen since I'm used to one (iPhone). Again, not completely sold on either, especially since I know a ton of Kindle lovers, but I will be going to B&N to see the nook in person soon. I have until March to decide since this will be my birthday gift! :)

steelcitymama

12-06-2009, 11:07 AM

i've been wanting to pop in to say that i'm loving my kindle! it was my christmas gift from my parents and i kind of snatched it up as soon as i saw that it arrived. :) anyway, i've been really enjoying it so far.

Sazoo

12-06-2009, 08:39 PM

So, for those of you who are Kindle-owners, are there any must-have accessories that I should put on my Christmas list along with the Kindle itself?

Bloomwood

12-06-2009, 10:19 PM

So, for those of you who are Kindle-owners, are there any must-have accessories that I should put on my Christmas list along with the Kindle itself?

I have and love the amazon cover for it. I didn't want anything that would be too stiff as I like to flip the cover back at the gym or have it lay flat. I also didn't want a closure that would flap onto the kindle itself while I read it or otherwise annoy me. Other than that, a gc to amazon!

steelcitymama

12-18-2009, 02:09 PM

i was just coming in to ask about covers....bloomwood, which one are you referring to, exactly?

does anyone have the gelaskins? i thought they were like iskins for ipods, but that doesn't seem to be the case. people said they were more similiar to stickers...

i don't need something SUPER protective - i won't often be putting it in a bag, etc. it will mainly just be sitting around the house and i want to protect it from dust, smudges, and little fingers. :)

laura

12-18-2009, 03:18 PM

I have the first gen so mine came with a cover, but she probably means this one:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d.html/ref=mp_s_a_1?qid=1261178135&a=B001JAH7OM&sr=8-1

I got that one for my husband and he really likes it.

Bloomwood

12-18-2009, 03:45 PM

yep. laura is right. that is the one I have.

wildcat

12-26-2009, 08:18 PM

I just ordered my Kindle today! I can't wait to get it! I'm a working mom with a 3.5 month old at home and am pumping at work for about 30 mins, 3x's a day. In the 3.5 weeks that I've been back to work, I've read the last 2 Twilight books (700ish pages each) and one other 275pg book. I'm so excited to read on my new Kindle and not drag around the big books! I'm a little worried I'll spend a lot of money on books now though! We have a great library here (probably 10 of them easily in driving distance by you can request them to move the books around on top of intralibrary from other cities), but it seems like there is always a big wait list for the more popular books. Now that I'll be spending at least 1.5 hours reading for the next 9 months while pumping. And I'm totally excited to use it while traveling, it'll be so nice not to lug around 2 books to read plus guide books!

A few questions...any other advice on covers? I really think I just want one that it slips into that I will entirely pull out to use, so more like a zippered pouch? Advice? Advice on why that is a bad idea?

Any other accessories? I love to read in bed at night, but my DH doesn't like me to have a lamp on as he thinks it keeps him awake (whatever!), so I was thinking maybe one of the clip on lights for it? Thoughts?

laura

12-26-2009, 09:13 PM

I use a regular clip on book light for mine and it works fine - I would definitely recommend one.

kmmommy

12-26-2009, 09:13 PM

Wildcat - I don't have any thoughts on the cover/case yet (my Kindle will be here Monday) but wanted to share that Amazon has free books often. Check out the Kindle bestseller list and there are several. A lot of authors I'm not familiar with but I figure it can't hurt to read a couple chapters to see if I get into it.

steelcitymama

12-27-2009, 06:41 AM

wildcat - i second the rec for checking out free books --- all the classics are free and they often have other random free books, too.

i just got this cover (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002FVZ43U/ref=s9_simp_gw_s0_p23_t4?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-4&pf_rd_r=00A7A5S9ERXJXZ1Q7JGJ&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=470939031&pf_rd_i=507846), sounds like what you're looking for.

my kindle is new too and i'm loving it!

LeslieR

12-27-2009, 06:59 AM

Does anyone have experience reading with reading on both an iPhone and a Kindle. How do they compare? Which do you prefer?

laura

12-27-2009, 10:05 AM

wildcat

12-27-2009, 09:21 PM

Thanks girls! I got a snuggie knock off from my FIL for Christmas (leave it to him for random gifts) and it came with a book light, hopefully that will work! I think I'm going to have my mom make me a jacket of sorts to slip it into and I'll see how that'll work. I've been "buying" a bunch of the free books tonight, I can't wait to get it! Wednesday seems so far away! lol

LeslieR

12-28-2009, 07:03 AM

I read on both, but I prefer the kindle bc I prefer a larger screen. However I always have my phone with me and I don't always have my kindle. Also the phone is illuminated which is sometimes logistically easier, like when I'm nursing at night. I love that my content syncs back and forth so I can pick up either and find my place immediately, though.

Thanks, laura! I added the Kindle app, so I think I'll DL some of the free books and see how I like it. I was telling DH about this and he said the same thing, "but, it's so small!" lol I'm assuming you get used to it.

johnjones

12-28-2009, 10:57 AM

Thank you all for posting on this. I have been wondering whether or not to get one. I like the feel of a book, like many have mentioned, but I would like to have the convenience of reading in bed or on a plain comfortably. I'm still thinking about it, but after reading through many of your post I am leaning towards getting one, thanks again.

jellybeany

12-30-2009, 06:37 AM

I got a Pocket Edition Sony Reader for Christmas and I'm really enjoying it. Its so easy to read on - I hate reading on my computer. I got the one without any bells & whistles and its perfect for me. I read so much and this will make storage easier and I've found I can get more comfortable while I'm reading. :)

Sazoo

12-30-2009, 07:39 AM

I got a Kindle for my birthday yesterday! :D I'm very excited to start reading with it (I haven't spent much time with it yet) and hope I will love it as much as others seem to from all the comments I've read here and on Amazon.com. I need to buy some sort of cover for it...I'm thinking of one of the ones you hook the Kindle into and they fold open like a book cover, rather than a protective pocket that I'd pull it out of in order to read. It feels kind of slippery to me, so I think I'l like it better in a cover.

I'm so disappointed that John Grisham's books aren't available in e-book format. I hope he comes around eventually!

mmm

01-04-2010, 09:05 AM

My mom & I are TOTAL readers!! Always have been. She's entirely non-techy, but loved hers so much she bought me one (lucky!!).

Anyways, we both love them. There are tons of free books on Amazon for it. You can download books from elsewhere online, a bunch of stuff you can do with it beyond the basics. Even beyond what the instructions say.

And you can now browse online with it :) Works best with text based screens, but I've been able to go on it and check email, wander the web on the kindle :)
Was shocked when I found that out. Not sure why since I can do that with my phone, but just more fun on the kindle to have more options? Anyways, yeah, loving it.

Oh, and not sure if they're available anymore, but a friend bought a refurbished Kindle1 and it arrived flawless.

mpc863

01-05-2010, 11:38 AM

question - can you share books with other kindle users if you use the same amazon login? i was thinking that my mom and i could share a login so we could swap books. that is the main thing that is holding her back. if we can download the same book to multiple devices it would be awesome!

laura

01-05-2010, 12:02 PM

Yes, you can.

jellybeany

01-07-2010, 10:56 AM

I was just wondering where everyone has found the best prices to buy ebooks from? TIA! :)

littlebear

01-08-2010, 03:42 PM

Question: I'm thinking about getting a Kindle for my mom who has vision problems and usually has to get large print books to read. Any recommendations as to the Kindle 2 vs. Kindle DX with regard to screen size or being able to increase font size? Most of the online reviews say that the screen is easy to read and doesn't strain the eyes. Has that been your experience?

laura

01-08-2010, 03:54 PM

I have the first edition and my kindle has 6 font choices and I normally use #3. Both of my parents wear reading glasses/bifocals and they were both satisfied with their large print options. Unless her problems are significant, I think the standard size would be ok.

solongtogo

02-01-2010, 05:33 PM

Does anyone know if you can download amazon ebooks to a Barnes and Noble Nook?

VASLP

02-02-2010, 05:14 AM

I was given a bunch of gift cards for Christmas by people who knew I was getting a Kindle. Since I have the default payment set up to my debit, I went on Amazon yesterday to try to change the default to the GCs. I can't figure out a way to do this because GC is not an option I can find in the Edit Payment Info section. Does anyone know how to do this?

wildcat

02-02-2010, 06:25 AM

solongtogo - No, I don't think you can. There are all different formats and Amazon has their own that can only be used on the Kindle, I think?

laura

02-02-2010, 08:31 AM

Gift certificates are the default payment method on Amazon, so if you have applied the GCs to your account, they will be applied to book purchases by default until you run out.

VASLP

02-02-2010, 10:05 AM

Thats what I thought, but when I checked this morning the charge still went to my debit. The GC is showing up as active in my account . I'll have to call customer service I guess.

laura

02-02-2010, 10:11 AM

That's weird bc I have the opposite problem - I have trouble getting things to NOT charge directly to my GCs since I always have a GC balance that I use for kindle books.

Orange

02-08-2010, 07:09 PM

Does anyone know if there is a way to buy kindle books for someone as a gift? I can only see on Amazon.com a way to buy it for yourself. I could always get an amazon GC, I guess, but I'd really like to choose some books myself for the gift.

laura

02-08-2010, 07:36 PM

I don't think you can. I think the best you could do would be an Amazon GC and a book list - kind of lame.

Dizzy

02-08-2010, 07:39 PM

We looked at the Nook the other day, and I'm pretty sure I'm getting one for Valentine's Day. Sooo excited! Anyone else have the Nook yet?

Leia

02-08-2010, 07:39 PM

Orange - I just saw a post about this on the kindleboards - it's something people have been wanting for awhile and I think I saw it was now possible or would be shortly. Go check there!

Dizzy

02-14-2010, 07:21 PM

Well, as suspected, i got a Nook today! I'm totally in love with it - it's an awesome device. Now I just have to figure out how we're going to share it. We might end up with 2 Nooks eventually...

mmm

02-15-2010, 11:10 AM

For buying kindle books as gifts, I think you can add the books now to "wish list" which are items that can be purchased by others. But not sure of a way you can pick & choose other than what's on the lists.

mmm

02-15-2010, 11:11 AM

Maybe best, I can just see DH filling my Kindle with Kama Sutra type books ;)

(big problem with that is that my mom & I sometimes trade to read what the other one has put on their kindle. I wouldn't need sex books filling up my Kindle while she has it!)

solongtogo

02-16-2010, 09:45 AM

Dizzy-I've got the nook too! I love it!

Dizzy

02-21-2010, 07:18 PM

Dizzy-I've got the nook too! I love it!

Me, too! I love having access to Google books and I already subscribed to The New Yorker. And if you take it into a B&N store you can download coupons & excerpts from books n stuff. It's the little things :)

jeepgirl

02-26-2010, 08:05 PM

*bump*

Dizzy

03-12-2010, 08:00 AM

Can I just say how awesomely convenient the Nook is and how much I LOVE it?! I discovered this week that I can check out e-books from the library. Crazy! I downloaded/borrowed The Happiness Project. So cool. DH is thinking of getting one now. We were going to share it, but I have yet to give it up for even a day.

kmmommy

03-16-2010, 07:45 PM

John Grisham is now available on Kindle! Made my day!

Sazoo

03-17-2010, 03:57 PM

John Grisham is now available on Kindle! Made my day!Seriously? SWEEEEET! :D

Thanks for sharing this info!

jeepgirl

06-25-2010, 09:35 PM

The kindle is now $189! Just FYI.

Kellie

06-26-2010, 04:04 PM

I seriously cannot imagine ever going back to reading without my kindle. My husband calls my kindle my boyfriend...ha ha ha! :)

Sazoo

06-30-2010, 10:37 PM

Woot's new daily deal is a Kindle (latest generation) for $149.99 + $5 shipping. It says these are new, not refurbished units.

Their heading made me laugh:

Yeah, yeah, that’s the real price for a real Kindle. It’s not a typo or a knockoff or some Russian credit-card scam – just a Woot exclusive deal. But, y’know, hurry it up, willya?

:)

http://www.woot.com/

ETA: I just read that Woot was recently acquired by Amazon, which is probably why they're able to offer this deal on the Kindle today. :)

Boomer

07-26-2010, 01:43 PM

I have a Nook and LOVE it!! Price on it just dropped also.

kmmommy

07-28-2010, 09:23 PM

Kindle 3 launched today with some nice improvements. Even better - the price is still $189!! Plus, the Kindle Wi-Fi is introduced at $139.

http://www.amazon.com/

endymion411

08-16-2010, 03:57 AM

Any thoughts on cases or other accessories for the nook? thanks!

laura

08-16-2010, 04:31 AM

One of our friends works on the Kindle. When we saw him last night he said Target is going to start carrying the new version Kindles on August 28. Just in case anyone wanted to see them in person!

bookworm

08-16-2010, 04:47 PM

Since I saw this bumped up I just had to say that now that I have an iPad, I realize even more how much I love my Kindle. I like the iPad a lot. But I just LOVE my Kindle. I can read one-handed, there is no eye strain, the battery lasts forever...it's definitely an "and" not an "or" for me.

laura

08-16-2010, 04:59 PM

That's funny. I would say I use the kindle app on my iphone and/or ipad much more than my actual kindle these days. BUT, I have the 1st gen Kindle and my battery is a bit wonky and not entirely reliable. I don't find eye strain to be an issue at all w/ the ipad/iphone, but I'm often reading in light which is too low for my kindle anyway.

Twylla

09-05-2010, 07:44 PM

Does anyone have any opinions on the Kobo eReader from Chapters??? I really would like to check it out in person.... but I don't have access in store yet. Huge bummer! http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/kobo-eReader/kobo_home-giz.html

My brother has an iPod that he's passing along to me soon, and he thinks I could just download the books to that, but I'm not entirely sold, and I think I have a good chance of convincing DH to get me some sort of reader for Christmas... any thoughts on trying to read off an iPod?

laura

09-05-2010, 09:42 PM

See my comments above. I read on my phone quite a bit with no issues. I thought I would hate the small screen, but I don't even notice after awhile.

Is it possible for you to borrow the iPod ahead and test it out?

Twylla

09-06-2010, 06:01 AM

Thanks laura. I'm pretty sure I'll have the iPod soon, so I should be able to test it out. I do read online from time to time, so I'm just freaking out wondering about the small screen, lol. I need to find the right software to transfer something onto the iPod, right? Or can the iPod search online as well? SOrry about the extra questions, I'm really not good with gadgets! ;)

laura

09-06-2010, 08:46 AM

Is it an iPod touch? Or what kind of iPod is it?

skyblu

09-06-2010, 09:03 AM

I just went on a long trip and decided to try downloading books to my iPhone. I used the iBooks app, and it was great! I was worried about reading on a small screen, but it wasn't a problem. I also love that you can adjust the brightness within the app so you can easily read at the beach or the pool without glare.

FoxyBlue

10-10-2010, 12:31 PM

I have the Kindle 3 and love it. It's definitely an improvement in terms of contrast, aesthetics (I have graphite), and weight/size. I read several books recently during long flights and it was wonderful.

I also like being able to read the sample chapters to determine if I want the book before I buy it.

You can get Calibre to convert certain types of books, but I think the Kindle is more open now or else some free book sites are making their formats more Kindle friendly. There are often some free/promo priced books if you keep checking Amazon. Book prices are also encouraging me to read some classics I haven't read before :)

If I KNOW I want to read a book I will buy it on Kindle. If I'm not sure then I just check it out at the library or peruse more 'sampling' at a bookstore. I've kept my costs in check so far.

My other plan is to request amazon.com gift cards for holidays, etc.

twainny

11-17-2010, 11:58 PM

I tried searching, but didn't find anything (i didn't search in general though).

My dad loves reading! I want to get him a Kindle for Christmas, but don't know if Kindle is the way to go. I saw a story on the news about being able to "check out" library books from most US libraries. Can you do that on the Kindle? Or is there a better choice? Anyone know the advantages/disadvantages to Kindle vs. Nook vs. Kobo. (I thought B&N was going out of business, so I didn't want to get that, but is it reallly going out of business?) I have tried search and comparing on-line, but I just don't get it! hahaha Can anyone enlighten me?

Also, is there anywhere to view books from the libraries that are availabe for e-readers? I tried a few months back, but couldn't come up with a list.

Wrighty26

11-18-2010, 08:24 AM

I have a Nook and I LOVE it. Great gift idea! You can "check out" digital books on the Nook, but not the Kindle. My library uses Overdrive.com.

I've never heard that B&N was going out of business -- I did hear that Books-a-Million was (that is who produces the Kobo). ?

I personally think you can't go wrong selecting either the Kindle or the Nook. I picked the Nook because of the touch screen interface. The Nook also allows you to insert an MicroSD card if you need more storage (although it comes with 2GB less than the Kindle) and it lets you lend a book once. I have mixed feelings on this feature. I like that it's even an option, but it annoys me that it's just once. I guess they have to make their money somehow!

Here's a pretty good comparison of the Kindle vs. Nook (including the Nook Color - which I know nothing about - but I know that I would never get an eReader with a backlight - it would kill my eyes).

http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2372819,00.asp

HTH!

twainny

11-19-2010, 06:54 AM

Thanks! We are going with the Nook! Now I just need to figure out which one! Don't know what the advantages/disadvantages are of the wireless vs. non wireless (or 3G or whatever!)

Thanks!

Amaye

11-19-2010, 06:59 AM

This is great - I was just about to start a thread about ereaders.

My SIL is going to get me one for Christmas but I'm not sure what one to get. I borrow a LOT of books from the library so I need one that I can use there. I just went to the library site and it states that they offer books in:
We are pleased to offer the following types of materials for checkout and download from this website:

eBooks in the Adobe® Digital Editions EPUB format
eBooks in the Adobe® Digital Editions PDF format
eBooks in the Mobipocket Reader format
WMA Audiobooks in the OverDrive Media Console™ format
MP3 Audiobooks in the OverDrive Media Console™ format
Music in the OverDrive Media Console™ format
Video in the OverDrive Media Console™ format

I have no clue if a Kindle (which is what I'm more inclined to) would work with this list. Wrighty26 - thanks for the link. It's helpful and shows that the Kindle can support some of the formats listed above but I'm not 100% sure how it all works.

Help please? :)

TIA

Wrighty26

11-19-2010, 07:25 AM

I have not figured out checking books out for the library works yet. Working on it though! I know there is some software I have to download to convert the books (or something - I'm so helpful, I know). And that the books are automatically returned after a certain amount of time (it sounds like you can set the length of time) - so no late fees! I think besides the whole free thing, that's the best part!At my library, I can check out 10 digital books at a time. There are still books on hold and I think it works like any other library system. They notify you when they are available and you have a certain amount of time to "check them out" (I guess download them) before they are set free.

My library specifically says no Kindle or iPad-- something to do with DMR. The Sony eReader and Kobo do though. Your library might be different though!

bunny nose

11-25-2010, 06:43 AM

I was going to ask about the e - readers. I had no idea you could borrow books. That is awesome. If I were to buy a book how much would it cost to do so ? Is it the same as actually buying the book in the store?

Katie1

11-25-2010, 07:24 AM

I am thinking of getting one for my MIL who lives in Ireland. How does buying the books work? I assume you enter your CC# either on the e-reader or online somewhere. Anyone have any experience with doing that overseas? For some reason she has trouble using her CC for purchases on American websites so I don't want to get it if she can't buy the books. I wonder if there is a European site to download the books and if so, do you need to buy a European version of the e-reader or will the American version work?

PookiePrincess

11-25-2010, 07:51 AM

Here's the other thread on e-readers (http://www.constantchatter.com/forum/showthread.php?43718-Amazon-Kindle-%28and-other-e-readers%29). It's in the book section.

laura

11-25-2010, 08:25 AM

Katie: I would maybe check out the European Amazon site re: your MIL.

Now you all have me curious about borrowing digital books from the library. I'll have to look into this at my library.

endymion411

11-25-2010, 08:47 PM

isign

11-26-2010, 12:49 PM

I have KOBO on my phone - how does the library thing work?

bunny nose

11-28-2010, 06:53 PM

i have the nook and have not yet purchased any books for it because there are so many available to "check out" from my local library (this was a big factor for me in choosing the nook over the kindle or ipad as an e-reader). the free library books work the same as real books---you check out a book (at my library the loan period is 14 days for e-books)--if no one else has a hold on it, you can renew. for some popular books, you put it on "hold," you get an email when the book is available and then have 5 days to check it out (the 14 days only begins once you have checked it out, so if i'm in the middle of another one i will wait until the 5th day to check it out). the longest i've had to wait for a book so far was 2 weeks.

DH is getting me the nook for Christmas. I decided to get one after we found yet another box full of books in the basement. So much less clutter this way. Anyway- how do I find out about borrowing books from the library? Also, if someone gives me a B & N gift card can I use that to buy books for the nook? Can you tell me all that you can about it? I really haven't looked into them too much yet. So any info I can get will be very useful! :) Thanks

Wrighty26

11-28-2010, 06:56 PM

For the library - check Overdrive.com to see if your local library uses it. If not, you might want to call your library and see what they use.

As for the giftcard - YES you can definitely using a B&N giftcard towards eBooks. Just got their site and register the card and they will use it first before charging a credit card.

bunny nose

11-29-2010, 07:57 AM

looch

12-01-2010, 01:43 AM

I live abroad and have an American Kindle, with an Amazon account that uses a European credit card. I often switch back and forth between having my location in the US or abroad because I can sometimes get titles in one location and not the other. I buy about three books a month, and usually do one download session to get all the books from my computer to my Kindle, because the wireless feature doesn't work where I live.

I got the Kindle as a gift in 2009 from my parents, after complaining about the lack of English bookstores in my area. For now, the option to check books out of the library isn't a priority, so that's why we went with that instead of the Nook.

bunny nose

12-02-2010, 06:37 PM

Is it Christmas yet? I want my Nook! :)

weezalana

02-17-2011, 02:22 PM

I just got my Kindle yesterday and am already in love with it! I had no idea you could put music on it, too! That will come in handy when traveling, so I won't drain my iPhone battery.

Has anyone tried the Lending feature? Likes? Dislikes?

I wish you could read B&N ebooks on it, though. I have a Groupon for there that I don't think I'm ever going to use. :p

Sazoo

02-17-2011, 02:29 PM

Hmm, you know more than I do - I wasn't aware I could put music on a Kindle, or that there is a lending function. I wonder if these are features of the latest model of Kindles? Mine is just over a year old. But I do love it!! :)

CrimsonEyes

02-17-2011, 02:40 PM

I didn't realize you could download music to the Kindle. I just got mine last month and I LOVE it! Of course, right now I am trying to finish a book that is not available on Kindle so I can get to the many that I have waiting to be read.

I heard about the lending feature. What I just read today makes me not too much of a fan of it though. You can lend a book to a friend for 2 weeks/14 days and once you do that, the book can not be lent to anyone else --- ever. I have two problems with that ... (1) I don't read quite that fast on everything so it may take me longer than 14 days to finish a book, and (2) if I lend a book to one friend, I should be able to lend the same book to another friend in the future. I truly hope this is a feature that they are working on and not planning to leave it with those restrictions.

Either way....I still LOVE my Kindle.

laura

02-17-2011, 02:41 PM

I looked into the lending feature sometime around the first week it launched. I like the concept but none of the books I have on my kindle (except free ones) or have purchased in my entire library are lendable. Nor are any books that I don't yet have but wanted to read. So that is kind of a turn off to me. I think the feature would be great if it was available on more titles.

cr8zyforaf

02-17-2011, 02:42 PM

The lending feature, unless I am missing something, is worthless right now. The book has to be made 'lendable' by the publisher and I've yet to find one that is lendable. I do love my Kindle, but this is annoying.

udsweetpea

03-05-2011, 04:19 PM

Wrighty26

03-05-2011, 04:37 PM

I'm really wanting a Kindle, and I'm saving up money for it through Swagbucks.com. There's a lady at the gym who told me I should get the $189 Kindle versus the $139 because you can't even read your downloaded books without a wifi connection. Is that true?

I don't have a Kindle, but I can't imagine that's true. You can read books on the Nook on "Airplane Mode" -- which turns off the wifi. The 3G really only comes into play when you want to buy/download a new book and you don't have wifi. I have 3G, but I NEVER use it. Ever.

bookworm

03-05-2011, 05:42 PM

I'm really wanting a Kindle, and I'm saving up money for it through Swagbucks.com. There's a lady at the gym who told me I should get the $189 Kindle versus the $139 because you can't even read your downloaded books without a wifi connection. Is that true?

No, not true. I usually keep my 3G off bc it drains the battery. You just won't be able to download new books from the beach (or wherever there isn't wifi).

JackieO

03-05-2011, 05:45 PM

I got the $139 version for Christmas...you can read your downloaded books with wi-fi turned off...in fact they tell you it will save your battery to turn it off when you're just reading. I actually turned it off today - we were driving so I couldn't find the wi-fi connection anyway. Hope you get your Kindle soon udsweetpea!

udsweetpea

03-05-2011, 06:48 PM

Awesome! Thanks for letting me know she wasn't telling the truth. I feel bad for her then that she returned her $139 one for the more expensive one simply because she didn't know how to work it.

seattleguamgirl

03-05-2011, 11:26 PM

I just got a Kindle for my birthday and I LOVE it! I'm already half way through This is Where I Leave You by Jonathan Tropper. :) Now I'm kicking myself for taking so long to get one.

scarlett

04-20-2011, 09:08 AM

I saw a press release today from Amazon announcing that they will be launching library lending for the Kindle later this year: http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=176060&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1552678&highlight.

I'm super excited about this. I've been looking at eReaders since before Christmas and like the Kindle better than the Nook but am a library gal which made the Nook better for me. But now with the library lending for the Kindle, I'll be getting one! Yippee! Now if only the Harry Potter books would be released as ebooks already.

laura

04-20-2011, 10:23 AM

That would be good, because their current "sharing" policy sucks.

On the HP note, I read an article with JK Rowling once where she said she would never allow the books to be released in digital format b/c she's a traditionalist and she thinks books are in and of themselves important. Which is so annoying, and I really hope she changes her mind eventually!!

boilermaker

04-20-2011, 10:27 AM

That makes me soooo happy!!! I've tried to transfer books from the library, through a conversion program then to my kindle and it's a PITA!

seattleguamgirl

04-20-2011, 08:29 PM

I saw a press release today from Amazon announcing that they will be launching library lending for the Kindle later this year: http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=176060&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1552678&highlight.

I read about this today! I'm so excited because I am spending way too much $$$ buying books on the kindle.

I actually don't mind the lending policy. I've shared several books with friends and it seems to work fine! But I only share with two people, so I guess it's easy to stay in that share limit?

laura

04-20-2011, 08:49 PM

I don't mind the sharing limits. It's just that I only have 1 book out of about 50 that are eligible for sharing. And my friend that I share with doesn't have any eligible.

seattleguamgirl

04-21-2011, 08:40 AM

I don't mind the sharing limits. It's just that I only have 1 book out of about 50 that are eligible for sharing. And my friend that I share with doesn't have any eligible.

Ah, got it. I only have one book that I can't share.

Smilin13

04-21-2011, 04:48 PM

The thing that bums me out is Ebooks are rarely available through our library. They seem to have a limited selection and huge wait lists. My husband thinks that libraries did not think of the huge success e-readers were going to be.
Of course I wonder if it is different in different areas.

boilermaker

04-21-2011, 05:01 PM

My library has a ton of e-books with very little wait time. But we're connected to the Cleveland Library system. I know the Chicago system has a ton too. I've used my brother's account at times to download them.

I've never really shared any books. I do trade off with my mom and sister but we just long into each others' accounts and take the books that way.

mrs_pell

05-01-2011, 10:56 AM

I'm in the Houston area so have access to the Houston library system. It's OKAY for e-books, but there is often a long waiting list. The thing that's so bad about the waiting list is that once you download it, you have it for 2 weeks...period. You can't "return early" like you can a real book, so if there's 5 people ahead of you, you're automatically looking at a 10 week wait. :( I definitely can't get newer releases that way, but it has been a way for me to read books I may not have noticed before since I browse through the "what's available" section when I'm out of books and trying to find a new one to read. We use overdrive.com as well and once that app is downloaded on the ipad, which is what i'm using, it's a BREEZE to get the book! I also get audiobooks that way when I can, so I can download to my ipod and listen while driving to/from work.

karlatta

05-01-2011, 01:29 PM

Mrs Pell, you can also get a free card to the Frisco and Arlington libraries just by living in Texas (and they'll mail them to you). Increases the selection a tiny bit.

mrs_pell

05-02-2011, 02:39 PM

Mrs Pell, you can also get a free card to the Frisco and Arlington libraries just by living in Texas (and they'll mail them to you). Increases the selection a tiny bit.

Oh wow!! Thanks for that info! Definitely didn't know that! :)

scarlett

05-03-2011, 10:49 AM

So I went to Target today to buy a Kindle. I had decided I don't need the 3G and want to get just the WiFi version. The Target I went to only had the "Special Offers" version. I'm opposed to that on principle, but I thought I would ask you ladies about it.

Would you be willing to put up with special offer ads on the home page and screen saver of your Kindle in order to save $25?

laura

05-03-2011, 10:59 AM

I didn't know there was such a thing, but I wouldn't be opposed to it I don't think. I rarely use my kindle at all anymore, so I think paying less for it would be ideal for me.

boilermaker

05-03-2011, 11:55 AM

I wouldn't. I'd pay more to not have that stuff on there. But I'm particular about advertising.

weezalana

05-04-2011, 08:58 AM

Nope. $25 is not enough of a savings to deal with ads, IMO. I would just order the Wi-Fi version from Amazon. Free shipping and no sales tax!

looch

05-04-2011, 09:09 AM

Yeah, I would put up with it. The screensavers don't bother me, and I wouldn't mind an extra click to get to my books.

udsweetpea

05-04-2011, 10:17 AM

I'm so anxious to buy a Kindle! I'm not much a reader, but only because my hands get tired from holding it up. Does the Kindle make you more of an avid reader?

I'm really debating getting the $114 one. Is the ONLY difference the special ads?

laura

05-04-2011, 10:43 AM

Your hands get tired from holding a book? I don't think a kindle eliminates that issue.

looch

05-04-2011, 10:48 AM

The format of a book doesn't change the amount of reading that I do. I read a lot less than I used to, mainly because I have less access to free books from the library. I don't know how that will change with library lending, but you should consider the average price of a kindle book when you're looking at getting an e-reader.

udsweetpea

05-04-2011, 10:55 AM

Your hands get tired from holding a book? I don't think a kindle eliminates that issue.

Yeah, hardback books are pretty heavy and awkward to hold while laying in bed. You don't think so?

scarlett

05-04-2011, 11:17 AM

Thanks for the opinions! I went to a different Target that still had the regular Wi-Fi ones and was able to get it yesterday. I would have ordered online, but I had a $5 coupon, $25 Target gift card and a $100 bill from Christmas that I wanted to use to buy it.

So far I'm liking it, but I've only downloaded one free book so far. I'm such a library gal, that I'm not sure how many books I'll actually buy. I hope the Kindle library lending gets going soon and that there will be a decent selection at my library.

udsweetpea - Yes the only difference between the $114 one and the $139 one are the special ads that are placed on the home page and the screen savers. Some of the special offers are good, like get a $20 Amazon gift card for $10, but others could get annoying, like try this Olay product (someone mentioned that brand specifically on an Amazon review).

weezalana

05-04-2011, 12:55 PM

udsweetpea - I find I'm reading much more since I got the Kindle. I loved getting books for free at the library, but reading and getting books on the Kindle is far more convenient!

udsweetpea

05-04-2011, 12:58 PM

weezalana Perfect! Thank you! I would go to my library, but all of the books are from 30 years ago. It seems like they never get anything remotely new.

udsweetpea

05-04-2011, 01:31 PM

Just ordered the $114 version. I don't think the ads will bother me, and if they're ads like "$10 for a $20 Amazon gift card", then that's helpful to me because I'd buy something like that.

looch

05-05-2011, 12:56 AM

I went nuts when I first got the Kindle, buying and reading books....I live abroad and don't have access to a lot of English books. Anyway, one day, I sat down and tallied up what I spent on books, and I was stunned at how quickly they added up. I used to buy books at the bookstore, but I was more careful about what I bought in the sense that I would do some research and buy things I was interested in. The "buy it now" one click feature on amazon was my downfall, I would just pop in 5 books at a time a few times a month, not realizing what I was spending, and more importantly, having a queue of books a mile long and not reading any of them all the way through. So, I resolved to read everything in my queue, then what DH had bought, and am just now finishing up and starting to buy a few books again.

FWIW, I am old fashioned, in the sense that if I spend $15 on a book, I want that book sitting on my bookshelf.

udsweetpea

05-09-2011, 07:50 AM

BethIrish

05-15-2011, 06:41 PM

Has anyone used the Lendle website?

I'm kind of annoyed that I only have 13 lendable books and I've had my Kindle since the first generation release.

mmm0708

05-15-2011, 06:58 PM

My Kindle arrived 3 days early! I just went on Amazon.com and ordered 2 free books- Alice in Wonderland and Dracula. I'm going to save up Swagbucks to buy some other ones. But for now, these will do :)

This is a great site for browsing free (and very cheap) books.

http://www.pixelofink.com/

tlynne

05-15-2011, 07:24 PM

I've had my Kindle for several months now and find that I read more often now! I am very happy with my purchase of the wi-fi version.

udsweetpea

06-14-2011, 10:06 AM

Are any of you interested in lending books to one another? I'm all done with Something Borrowed. If you want me to lend it to you, let me know :)

anemone

08-02-2011, 03:01 AM

We are thinking of buying MIL a kindle as a gift- she is a huge book reader, and I think she would find it useful for when she travels (which is fairly frequent). She also speaks fluent French, so two questions:

Are there many foreign language books available on the kindle, and second, should I get her the Wi-Fi model, or 3G with WiFi (and what difference does it make really)?

dragonfly_71

08-04-2011, 11:16 AM

I also have a question regarding the kindle. Does anyone have the one with special orders? Is the banner on each page when you read a book or only on the home page and screen saver? In other words are there any distractions when you try to read?

laura

08-04-2011, 12:51 PM

anemone: I'm not sure about foreign language books. 3G/wifi means she will be able to connect to the bookstore on the go, when she is not in a wifi location - 3G means "cell phone" (mobile) network. Wifi only means you have to be on wifi to download new books. You don't need either connection to read books you already have on your device. I think it would be a good gift for your MIL. My parents really like mine, although the idea stressed them out before they saw it.

dragonfly: IIRC, udsweetpea was considering that model and I think she ended up getting it. You could try to PM her if she doesn't come by here.

udsweetpea

08-04-2011, 06:33 PM

dragonfly That's the one I got, and there's no interruption with reading whatsoever. They are only on the homepage and screensaver and not on every page of the book. Enjoy! :)

dragonfly_71

08-04-2011, 07:34 PM

I'm still on the fence if I really need one. I often read on the go like at amusement parks, the beach, playground etc. Would you say the kindle lends itself to that?

dragonfly_71

08-04-2011, 07:48 PM

looch

08-05-2011, 01:32 AM

You can also look on the country specific amazon locations, they have Kindle sections as well. Sometimes, what I do is switch my country so I can access books that aren't available (for whatever reason, I don't know) in my billing country.

My kindle is broken, the little selection button is split in half. It still works, but it annoys me, as this was one of the first kindles available and considering it cost $300 and was never dropped or handled roughly. I think it's a great device though. It is small enough to bring anywhere and whip out when you have a few extra minutes. I've been so engrossed in mine, I've missed my train stop on may way home from work a few times! I also love to bring it on vacation, so I can have a large selection of books, in case my mood changes. Case in point, I've been reading "Gotham" for over a year now, I'd never lug a book as big as that with me!

dragonfly_71

08-05-2011, 05:19 AM

Okay okay ladies I guess I have to order one too! :)

ETA: okay done!

boilermaker

08-10-2011, 12:30 PM

Has anyone tried the new Kindle Cloud yet? I'm downloading it now and am curious to see how it works.

Grenouille

08-10-2011, 10:05 PM

laura

08-10-2011, 10:20 PM

I have an iPad and I don't use my kindle ever, now. I'm not even sure where it is actually. I do use the kindle app, however.

ETA: actually for full disclosure, I do the most reading on my iPhone bc it's what I always have with me. If I want a bigger screen and it is available, I use my iPad.

dragonfly_71

08-12-2011, 08:05 PM

I have an iPhone and an iPad and I never liked reading on either. I love animated children's books on the iPad and it is nice that the books have sound so you can have the iPad read to your kids. I also love looking at magazines or catalogs on the ipad because the picture quality is great, however, I do not like reading books on it. It is too heavy and clunky to hold comfortably and when I read a particular book I want to be able to take it with me and read on the go and I never take my iPad anywhere. I mean, I may take it on vacation so DS can watch a movie on it or play games or something but I don't carry it around with me at all times like I do with a book. I just got my kindle (the one with special offers) in the mail today and I love it already. It is exactly what I was looking for, small, but with a big enough screen to read comfortably, light and not fragile. I also like that is has buttons rather than a touch screen because I don't like the screen to be constantly smudged when I'm reading.

akacharlotte

08-13-2011, 04:01 PM

I like the Kindle because I sit outside and read and the Kindle screen works well for outdoor reading...no glare. I'm ready for the library lending program to start. I'm spending way too much on books. I try to take advantage of the free books or the .99 books and limit paying normal Amazon prices to twice a month. I don't always succeed. :)

boilermaker

08-13-2011, 04:22 PM

I have a kindle and iPad and I much prefer to read on the kindle. It is kinder to my eyes. I tried the kindle cloud this week and it works fine as long as you remember to turn your kindle to wireless (I normally have it off).

I thought I would be excited about library books and lending but I can get library books straight to my iPad/iPhone and frankly, the selection of sharable books is awful. I tried over 20 books I have on my to read list and a whopping one of them is lendable/ available through the library. I tried both Cleveland and Chicago, so I wasn't using small libraries.

scarlett

08-14-2011, 06:34 AM

I thought I would be excited about library books and lending but I can get library books straight to my iPad/iPhone and frankly, the selection of sharable books is awful. I tried over 20 books I have on my to read list and a whopping one of them is lendable/ available through the library. I tried both Cleveland and Chicago, so I wasn't using small libraries.That is unfortunate. I recently downloaded the OverDrive app to my android phone and have borrowed and read 5 ebooks from the Columbus library in the last week. But, I would much prefer to be reading on my Kindle.

ETA: I did want to add that despite my recent success, I do find ebook library lending to be limiting. I just happened to stumble upon a set of books that I was interested in reading that was also available as ebooks. However, I do have confidence that ebook library lending will grow.

bookworm

08-14-2011, 07:40 AM

Are Kindles pretty much the way to go if you want an E-Reader? Does anyone have a Nook, or use something else like a tablet of some sort (iPad, Xoom, HP, etc.)? I wouldn't want to get a Kindle, then get a tablet or something else and not use the Kindle ever.

I have said before I hate reading on my iPad, and still use my Kindle all the time. I know people who love their Nooks though, so it may be worth looking at both.

steelcitymama

08-14-2011, 07:47 AM

Wanted to chime in and say I much prefer reading on my kindle to reading on my iPad. It feels way better on my eyes, has no glare, is lighter, etc. Like some others,though, I am a library girl and hate having to buy books....but that's neither here nor there, really. :)

Dizzy

08-14-2011, 08:45 PM

I just got the new Nook (the small touch screen with e-ink) and I LOOOOVE it. It's so compact and light and is still easy on the eyes since it's e-ink. The touch screen and being able to see the covers is awesome. I also have an ipad, but I don't carry it around with me nor do I read books on it. I feel like the ipad is way too heavy to throw in my bag. I even thought the old Nook was a little cumbersome, but this new Nook is perfect. It even fits in my smaller drawstring satchel.

akacharlotte

08-16-2011, 07:12 AM

I learned this morning via Amazon Live Chat that you may only loan Kindle books one time.

udsweetpea

08-16-2011, 07:24 AM

I learned this morning via Amazon Live Chat that you may only loan Kindle books one time.

You mean the same book just one time?

akacharlotte

08-16-2011, 07:37 AM

You mean the same book just one time?

Yes.

boilermaker

08-16-2011, 08:06 AM

Yes, that is true.

dragonfly_71

08-16-2011, 08:44 AM

I signed up for booklending.com and was able to get The Hunger Games within a day. Not sure if that was a fluke but I was impressed.

dragonfly_71

08-26-2011, 05:22 AM

Is there anyone who has Mockingjay and would lend it to me? I just got my kindle so I don't have much to offer in return yet but probably will in the future.

seattleguamgirl

09-19-2011, 10:13 AM

I just got a notice from my library that they are rolling out Kindle lending! I just loaded two books on my Kindle from the library. I am soooo happy! It was really easy too--added the books on my library site, then clicked a link that took me to Amazon and I was able to deliver it directly to the Kindle.

scarlett

09-21-2011, 12:54 PM

BethIrish

09-22-2011, 08:12 AM

Hi all,

Just wanted to throw this out there. I thought I was a serial Kindle 3 killer.

My 2nd one just had the screen freeze. (Got it for Christmas, froze in January and they sent replacement.) I figured out, using my Google-fu, that the *cover* I was using was pulled from the market in Jan/Feb of this year because they suspected it was causing the devices to freeze/randomly reboot/act weird. It is the non-lighted leather cover made by Amazon.

Sure enough, when I called Customer Service back to inquire abou this - they confirmed it was likely the issue. So now, along with a new Kindle, they are sending me a new cover.

Just wanted to throw this out there as it took a little searching on my part to discover the issue. And because the cover/device were purchased for me as gifts, that didn't flag an issue to them. (Why they wouldn't just automatically ASK what kind of cover you're using is beyond me, but that is beyond the point.)

Pine Tree

09-22-2011, 08:19 AM

You can now check out library books with the kindle!!! Awesome news.

dragonfly_71

09-22-2011, 12:49 PM

I so love my kindle! Seriously!

looch

09-22-2011, 11:33 PM

Yay for the library lending! I have to get set up at my library at home!

akacharlotte

09-23-2011, 06:51 AM

I applied for a library card yesterday so I can utilize the library lending. I'm so happy!

littlebear

09-26-2011, 06:06 AM

Love the new library lending. No more waiting on long lists for a book to become available.

looch

09-26-2011, 07:10 AM

I just browsed some of the non-fiction that is available, seems like I would read about half of the 30 or so selections, so it's worth it for sure to sign up for a library card!

seattleguamgirl

11-03-2011, 02:35 PM

This just in from Amazon.com:

Dear Customers,

Today we're announcing a new benefit for Kindle owners with an Amazon Prime membership: the Kindle Owners’ Lending Library.

Kindle owners can now choose from thousands of books to borrow for free, including over 100 current and former New York Times Bestsellers — as frequently as a book a month, with no due dates. No other e-reader or ebook store offers such a service.

The Kindle Owners’ Lending Library features a wide array of popular titles, including Water for Elephants, Moneyball: The Art of Winning an Unfair Game, and Fast Food Nation – plus award-winning novels such as The Finkler Question, motivational books like The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, biographies and memoirs including Kitchen Confidential, and Pulitzer Prize-winning books like Guns, Germs, and Steel.

We’re adding the Kindle Owners’ Lending Library to Prime membership at no extra cost — Amazon Prime remains just $79 a year, which gives you free two-day shipping on millions of products, plus unlimited instant streaming of almost 13,000 movies and TV shows.

-------------------

Oh Amazon, I didn't think it was possible to love you more. :)

laura

11-03-2011, 02:37 PM

They are really reeling people in for the Prime Membership there!

seattleguamgirl

11-03-2011, 02:40 PM

Laura, are you a Prime member? I am and it's so worth it. I actually got free Prime membership for six months through Amazon Mom and when it expired I finally bought it on my own--best $80 spent IMO. ;) I love getting two day shipping on everything and the extra perks.

laura

11-03-2011, 02:47 PM

I have the free one now but it expires at the end of the month. I was kind of holding out on buying the new one, but now with this, I think I'll have to!

dragonfly_71

11-03-2011, 02:59 PM

I have the free one right now and I wonder if it includes this since it does not include the free streaming.

laura

11-03-2011, 03:04 PM

It doesn't include it for free prime - I already checked on that. It says it's only available if you upgrade to a paid membership.

cr8zyforaf

11-03-2011, 06:01 PM

I was on the fence about upgrading my free to a paid prime (expires at the end of the month) but now I will upgrade. Between this and the quick and free shipping I am sold!

dragonfly_71

11-04-2011, 03:49 AM

It doesn't include it for free prime - I already checked on that. It says it's only available if you upgrade to a paid membership.

I figured. I think I will keep the free membership until it expires. Between Lendle, Booklending, free downloads, and the library I am set for a while. But I will likely upgrade to the paid service later.

dragonfly_71

11-09-2011, 06:32 PM

I just want to say that I absolutely love my kindle. I have the one with special offers and the offers are fantastic. I have used a whole bunch of them already.

Grenouille

11-14-2011, 08:07 PM

I think I've talked myself into a Kindle Fire. I know they are just now shipping them, anyone have thoughts on why I *shouldn't* buy one? I need something to use when the kids are on the laptop (or something they can use instead of the laptop), I'd love to use it as an e-reader, I have an android phone already so at least some of my apps would transfer, not sure about using it for movies etc. but if I can do that on the go (airplanes etc) then that would be awesome. Also would probably bring that on vacation instead of a laptop so I can check email and internet on something other than my phone.

Does that sound about right for Kindle Fire usage? Not interested in spending money on an iPad and would love a Galaxy Tab but again, too spendy. I figure if I find I want more the Fire can be handed down to the kids, right?

dragonfly_71

11-15-2011, 04:55 PM

Someone in another thread posted she was getting Kindle Fires for her children. I am considering getting one for DS so he can play his games on there instead of the iPad. It's supposed to be super durable (which the iPad definitely is not) and I think it would have most of the games DS likes. And of course he can read books on it too.

laura

11-15-2011, 04:59 PM

I'm getting the new 3G touch kindle for my bday. I'm excited to have it after losing my iPad to DD. :p It will be nice to read on a screen larger than my iPhone again.

Gren: I think your needs would be met by a kindle fire.

Grenouille

11-15-2011, 06:39 PM

Well yay, because I bought one tonight :p! Charging it up right now and uploading some music to Amazon Cloud so I can play it on there and my phone. I'll post more after I've used it.

granada

11-15-2011, 10:16 PM

So, maybe this is a lame question, but what's the difference between the Kindle Fire and the Ipad? My mom wants to get DS an ipad (whatever, grandmas are crazy), but I was thinking if the Kindle Fire is cheaper, maybe I should encourage her to go that route. Is the Kindle Fire smaller? It surfs the internet, right? I would think we'd mostly use it for games for DS and kid shows (and maybe I will occasionally *ahem* borrow it to read books on). Can you store shows on there or only watch them via a wifi connection?

laura

11-15-2011, 10:30 PM

My husband (who is admittedly biased toward the iPad) said that the kindle fire seems to be targeting people who want to stream content bc there is not a large storage capacity. So the storage is targeted more at books and some music but video content is more set up for streaming from the Amazon store. He said "outside of it being an inferior operating system and device" :p it doesn't have access to the apple app store, which he feels is a big downfall. The android app store has far less apps and (he said) less good quality apps. That said, for a kid it is probably fine. But you will probably hit some limitations with it much sooner than you would with an iPad. IMO.

Grenouille

11-15-2011, 10:56 PM

If you own videos, you can load them on to the Kindle Fire and watch them wherever. Otherwise you need a wifi connection to stream content. The Amazon Appstore has fewer options because it is newer, but it is regulated which means the apps that are available are not crap like in other markets. As the Fire grows in popularity, more apps will become available. Same thing happened when Android was new. I have a feeling the Amazon Appstore will pick up quickly.

Oh, I forgot to add that when you buy a Fire you get a month of Prime membership free. That will definitely come in handy right now for me, what with the holidays coming up!

The Fire is smaller than the Ipad. I didn't try out an Ipad, but I did try a 10 inch Samsung tablet and it was heavy. The Fire is lighter.

You might want to go try them out and see which one feels better to you. I still think I'll get a real tablet one day, probably not an Ipad though, but for now this is great.

So far I really like the Fire! I've figured out the Amazon Cloud and loaded some of my itunes music into the cloud, and loaded much of it onto the Fire. Still learning, but liking it so far. Right now I have no need for a $500-$600 tablet that the kids could easily ruin, so this thing is great.

Where are some places to look for free or inexpensive books? I've checked my local library and many that I'd like aren't available there. Do I have other options?

TracyDP

11-15-2011, 11:06 PM

If it were me, or there were budget constraints I would absolutely get a Kindle Fire. But, my DH feels like Laura's and said he wants an ipad. Period. So, we get an ipad. If he wants to spend $500 on it, I'll certainly use it! Also, we both have iphones and a ton of apps already so on that side it makes sense to have an ipad. My Mom has an ipad for her school and a TON of educational apps that I can use if I sign in through her account (we did this with her ipod touch and it worked).

scarlett

11-16-2011, 11:08 AM

Grenouille - Did you get your Kindle Fire at a store? I'd love to try one out, but I'm not sure what stores carry them.

dragonfly_71

11-16-2011, 11:49 AM

There is no way I would get my son an iPad. He can use mine but only sitting in the middle of our bed where it is highly unlikely that he will drop it. He is not allowed to get it himself or carry it around. He knows if I ever catch him disobeying these rules it is goodbye to the iPad for good. This may sound over the top but if I would let my six year old lug an expensive, fragile device around the house I would have no one but myself to blame if it got broken.

Grenouille

11-16-2011, 12:31 PM

Grenouille - Did you get your Kindle Fire at a store? I'd love to try one out, but I'm not sure what stores carry them.

Yep, got mine at Best Buy because I had a bunch of gift cards.

Can't do multiquote but I completely agree with you Dragonfly.

dragonfly_71

11-16-2011, 06:55 PM

I think I'm going to best buy tomorrow to check it out.

looch

11-21-2011, 11:37 PM

Readers Digest has an article this month on how to choose among Kindle, Nook and iPad.

iPad seems to be the frontrunner in most categories.

TracyDP

11-22-2011, 12:09 AM

Readers Digest has an article this month on how to choose among Kindle, Nook and iPad.

iPad seems to be the frontrunner in most categories.

Well, it is really comparing Apples to oranges (haha). The ipad is, of course, giving you a lot more features but it also costs $300 more (for the base model) and that is nothing to sneeze at. If you really really want an ipad, or need features an ipad has then you are not going to want a Kindle or Nook Tablet. But if you don't have $500 (that really turns into $700 after cases, apps, insurance plan, etc, etc, etc) the Kindle Fire or Nook Tab are really good alternatives. If my Mom didn't have an ipad that DD and I have played with a LOT and had a lot of fun on I would probably be buying either a Kindle or Nook for Christmas. Even DH who is an iphone devotee is having a hard time coughing up $500 or more for an ipad, though I will say he has never even had one in his hands and doesn't know what he's missing. I need to find one for him to play with...lol.

If Apple made an ipad mini 7 inch tablet for around $300 then I think you could compare them honestly.

looch

11-22-2011, 03:12 AM

I really think you can compare, because the categories are fair, like "if you use it as an additional family device" or "as a tool for business travel" or "as your only computer." Kindle wins in "as a way to read more and read wherever."

eta: I have one of the original kindles, that sucker cost almost $400 three years ago, which is just $99 cheaper than the cheapest ipad.

laura

11-22-2011, 09:22 AM

looch: me too! I think people like to forget that the kindle used to be much more expensive! Plus the same "extras" could be applied to kindles and nooks, like cases, apps, etc.

TracyDP

11-22-2011, 10:19 AM

This PC World article (http://www.pcworld.com/article/244282/kindle_fire_vs_nook_tablet_which_should_you_buy.ht ml)was very good with a head to head comparison of the Kindle and Nook. He doesn't outright recommend one over the other but from what I could gather it looks like the Nook came out the winner (and is probably the choice I would make after reading it).

looch

11-23-2011, 04:17 AM

That's a great article, TracyDP. Thanks for posting it. I may get a new reading device in the next few months, we'll see what happens with pricing.

TracyDP

11-23-2011, 11:11 AM

I was thinking about it last night (I know, how bored was I...) and I think the comparison that makes sense is kindle/nook vs ipad is like netbook vs. laptop. Similar functionality but limited. Also, I know in our family it makes a big difference if you have had time to play with an ipad and see what it can do. I spent 2 weeks at my Mom's and she has one so I had a good long time to use it, and yesterday I went to Target and was playing around with their Kindle Fire. Honestly, knowing what the ipad is/does and how it looks I seriously don't think I could settle for a Kindle or Nook at this point unless it was in addition to an ipad (like for travel or for DD to use when outside the house). DH has never used any of them and is kind of unsure if he wants to get an ipad because, being a tech geek he just can't settle for the $500 16G ipad and would HAVE to spend $700 and get the 64 gig. Bigger is always better I guess. I told him I know beyond a doubt that once we had one, DD would have to pry it out of DH's hands to use it.

Grenouille

11-23-2011, 11:28 AM

I've had my Kindle Fire for a week now, and I don't feel like I'm missing out on anything and do not wish for something "better". I like the size, and that I can hold it with one hand and use the other hand to navigate. I couldn't do that with a bigger tablet, those have to sit on my lap or a surface because they are heavier, which isn't always practical. And I am glad I didn't spend hundreds more on something that, for me, allows me to do the same thing as my Fire (read, listen to music, surf the net, play games).

Anyway, since this is the Kindle thread and not the ipad thread, for those who are interested there are user reviews on Amazon from people who own both comparing the Fire to an ipad (Fire wins in most categories).

dragonfly_71

11-24-2011, 08:56 AM

Grenouille

11-24-2011, 02:11 PM

Grenouille I wasnt' able to actually "handle" one at the store since they have it mounted on a display where you can only watch a demo so I was wondering would you say the Fire is sturdy enough to be handled by a six year old who is not reckless or destructive but still a little clumsy?

Definitely. I am a nervous nelly when it comes to letting my kids play with expensive things, but my 6yo has been fine with the Fire. I wouldn't necessarily let him fling it around or run with it, but he has played it a few times and not dropped it.

dana b

11-24-2011, 09:44 PM

would you say the Fire is sturdy enough to be handled by a six year old who is not reckless or destructive but still a little clumsy?
i haven't opened ours yet, but i did buy the square trade warranty through amazon for $45. that covers accidental damage for 2 years.

JLRenheos

12-22-2011, 04:27 PM

just from the little bit that I've read here, I'm debating getting a Nook (color?) or Kindle for dh. maybe, not sure though. If not for Christmas, then maybe later next year. If it's for the Dh & he will use it for reading/looking at magazines, would you recommend getting a color then-esp; if he were to read magazines using the nook/kindle? What type of kindle would you recommend(price range, from $100-$150). Kindle Touch 3G, Kindle, etc; etc.?? What about 3G vs. NO 3G?

laura

12-22-2011, 07:09 PM

I got the kindle touch 3G for my birthday and I'm not thrilled with it. It's FINE but not great. Some of the motions are super sensitive but then other times I feel like I have to beat on it to get it to turn a page. And several times it inexplicably returned me to the first page of my book and I still have no idea how/why.