Books vs. Ebooks

An un-ending debate has been going on for a while now after the first ebooks where presented to the world. So, is one better than the other? or, are they both good?

To start of, let me say I used to be a "book" only type of person. Every time I went to the bookstore and saw these new electronic reading devices, I frowned upon them for I thought nothing can replace the feeling of having a book in one's hand. This, however, changed one day.

The trailer of "The Hunger Games" movie came out, and it caught my attention (yes, I had not realized that book existed until the trailer, so please don't kill me for it.) Very excited about reading it, I went to the get it, for I couldn't wait to immerse myself in a story that had captivated so many and had tons counting the days for the movie to be released. When I got to the store, they told me the book had been sold out and had no idea when they would have it back in stock. Disappointed, I went to another three bookstores, but with no success. In one of those, the sales person suggested me to buy an electronic device where I could download the book as well as its sequels. Having no other option, for waiting was not one of them, I went for it and bought my first ever electronic reader.

I found it easy to use and a got exactly what I was looking for. I found a diverse collection of books, some from recommendation of my recent purchase, as well as other genres which I had never read before. As an avid reader and absolute book lover I have pointed out, from my experience, the benefits of both.  

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PRINTED BOOKS

THEY MAKE BETTER GIFTS

Why do I start with this point? Well, it is more touching to receive the actual book in your hands, knowing the person took their time to get this book who they thought was perfect for you, rather than getting a gift card which, in my opinion, makes it less personal.

NO NEED TO CHARGE

This is one of the best benefits books have, no need to charge them. You can read it as much as you like or taking it anywhere without worrying about the battery.

IT DOES NOT AFFECT YOUR EYESIGHT

Some ebooks or other electronic devices like tablets and phones, can affect your eye sight due to the high light they have, and even if you lower it, they still affect you in some way. This I speak from personal experience, for there was a time when I read only through my phone or tablet for my e-reader had stopped functioning and had not yet bought a new one. My head hurt after a long read and I felt my vision was a tad blurry. So yes, my new ebook had to have a "paper" like screen.

THE SMELL OF BOOKS

Ah yes, nothing compares to the smell of books. This I think helps ignite a love for a story even before we have read the first page. It's a sort of attraction that happens once the smell hits you.

SEE YOUR PROGRESS

This is something that ebooks, even though they have something similar, you can't fully see your reading progress as you do on a real book.

EBOOKS

READING TOOLS

This is one of my favorite things about ebooks, the tools they have. You can expand your vocabulary knowledge by just tapping on a word and getting its definition. One can also comment on a selected part of the book with others who have read it and have an interaction with users around the world. And of course, the highlighter which can be erased after it was used or it can be left there without really staining the page for good.

YOUR LIBRARY READY TO GO ANYWHERE, ANYTIME

This was SO helpful for me when I moved to London last year. I was devastated that I had to leave my books back home, but thanks to my ebook, I took them all and they where at my reach on my purse anywhere I went.

GET BOOKS IMMEDIATELY

No more queues, no more disappointments when a book you were looking for is not available, no more waiting for to get that final installment the next day when the store opens. Since ebooks stores are available 24/7, you can get a book no matter the time or place, as long as you have a wifi connection.

FREE BOOKS

This has been one of the best perks EVER. At least 90% of the free ebooks I've read have been absolutely incredible! This has helped me find new amazing authors and also indulge in a diverse range of genres that I had never read before and have now become favorites of mine.

CHEAPER BOOKS

Yes, ebooks are cheaper than printed books and this is also a big plus for all those bookworms who can't get enough and have an addiction to devouring books but, have a budget (who doesn't?).

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For me, one is not better than the other for at the end of the day I LOVE to read, no matter where nor in what. I love both ebooks and books, for I truly believe the magic is in the words, not the artifact.

Happy reading!