I was lucky enough to receive a Kindle for Christmas.
It has transformed my reading habits. Small and light enough to be carried in my handbag wherever I go, as a result of owning it I’ve read far more than I ever did before. Its long battery life and the addition of a rather spiffy case with an integrated reading light have made me a very happy woman.
I downladed the complete works of Jane Austen (naturally, and within the first five minutes of owning it) for a song, but am terribly excited by the news, related to me by my dear friend Karen of Bookish NYC, that the British Library is going to make lots of 19th century fiction available as free downloads for Kindle users.
I cannot ever contemplate buying a first edition of a Jane Austen novel (I’d rather keep the roof above my head in good order instead ) but I do own a facsimile copy of the first edition of Pride and Prejudice which was produced by the British Library in a limited edition(and is still available to buy).
If the new e- books are of the same quality I will be happy.
And I really do look forward to the paperback facsimiles of the first editions too .
Brava British Library!
4 comments
February 8, 2010 at 10:35 am
imogen88
Well. Julie, this sounds really interesting and certainly good news from your friend Karen about these works being available for Kindle. You sound like you are enjoying it so much, and that is the main thing!
February 9, 2010 at 10:29 am
jfwakefield
I am enjoying it! Having a library of books to hand- it is very easily carried in ones handbag- is a fabulous experience. The battery life is amazing. I like audio books to a certain extent ,but often find myself falling asleep if the reader’s voice is pleasant. I much prefer reading, to listening
And having a virtual library will save real shelf space for more worthy books 
February 10, 2010 at 9:45 am
imogen88
Sounds good, especially about the battery life, Julie! And handy to carry around too. Yes, you have to listen at the pace of the reader’s voice, and it can be very soothing, agree. LOL about the shelf space!
February 10, 2010 at 9:48 am
jfwakefield
I hear a colour Kindle may be available soon- and I think I would upgrade to that. You can view illustrations on the Kindle but they are displayed( of course) in black and white and are not always very clear.
I highly recommend them: the ability to buy a book anywhere – in a restaurant, hotel , on a train etc- is such a boon