- Published on
For some, there's nothing like a real book
Ah, the pleasures of reading...
'I get how convenient e-books are,' a friend told me recently. 'But there's nothing quite like snuggling up with a real book, is there?' She's not alone. Since I started publishing novels, I've lost count of the number of people who have told me they prefer to hold an actual book in their hands as opposed to a tablet or e-reader.
Personally, I'm happy to use both. I have a Kindle as my chosen e-reader device. I love it, but I also read hardbacks and paperbacks borrowed from my local library. I believe our free book borrowing system is amazing, so I'm keen to support it, and there's also an ever-growing range of e-books available from them as well.
'I get how convenient e-books are,' a friend told me recently. 'But there's nothing quite like snuggling up with a real book, is there?' She's not alone. Since I started publishing novels, I've lost count of the number of people who have told me they prefer to hold an actual book in their hands as opposed to a tablet or e-reader.
Personally, I'm happy to use both. I have a Kindle as my chosen e-reader device. I love it, but I also read hardbacks and paperbacks borrowed from my local library. I believe our free book borrowing system is amazing, so I'm keen to support it, and there's also an ever-growing range of e-books available from them as well.
Ebooks, defend your corner!
So why are e-books so popular? Let's look at the advantages.
1. Immediate gratification. In a world where change is occurring at an increasingly fast pace, e-books provide near-instant enjoyment. With Amazon's 'one click' facility, it's a matter of seconds to get the latest blockbuster on your Kindle.
2. Portability. E-readers and tablets can hold thousands of books, great for travelling. It takes seconds to add or delete books, and it's a doddle to move them between devices.
3. E-readers are customisable. Need to read in a larger font? Simple. Like to make notes you can erase later? Easy-peasy. Want to read in bed at night but your partner is asleep beside you? No problem - simply activate the built-in light on your Kindle or Nook.
4. Price. The price of most full-length novels on Amazon UK is around the £3 mark. Paperback novels tend to retail at £8 or £9. E-books have made reading far cheaper and often free. The advent of Amazon's Kindle Unlimited programme has helped boost ebook reading.
1. Immediate gratification. In a world where change is occurring at an increasingly fast pace, e-books provide near-instant enjoyment. With Amazon's 'one click' facility, it's a matter of seconds to get the latest blockbuster on your Kindle.
2. Portability. E-readers and tablets can hold thousands of books, great for travelling. It takes seconds to add or delete books, and it's a doddle to move them between devices.
3. E-readers are customisable. Need to read in a larger font? Simple. Like to make notes you can erase later? Easy-peasy. Want to read in bed at night but your partner is asleep beside you? No problem - simply activate the built-in light on your Kindle or Nook.
4. Price. The price of most full-length novels on Amazon UK is around the £3 mark. Paperback novels tend to retail at £8 or £9. E-books have made reading far cheaper and often free. The advent of Amazon's Kindle Unlimited programme has helped boost ebook reading.
Let's hear it for physical books!
It's reassuring to note there's still a gratifying rise in the sales of actual books as well. So what makes so many people love snuggling up with a physical version of their chosen read?
1. Ah, the pleasure of a brand-new book! Many people give this as a reason for preferring paperbacks and hardbacks to e-books. There's something incredibly sensual about holding a new book purchase, smelling its pages and feeling the smoothness of the cover beneath one's fingers. How can an electronic version compete? Straight answer - it can't. Set beside their physical counterparts, e-books appear somewhat homely at best. And doesn't a well-stocked bookcase add something wonderful to a room?
2. Whilst textbooks are becoming increasingly digital, there are some books that undoubtedly do better in physical format. Cookery books, for one, with their glossy pages full of photos of wonderful culinary delights, look much better in a physical format. So do the types of books destined for life on the coffee table - exotic travel tomes, photographic books and the like - against which digital versions can't as yet compare.
3. For me, it's easier to flip backwards and forwards in a physical book. I can skim through the pages of one really quickly with my fingers. Not so with an e-book using the content/search facilities on my Kindle - sure, I can do it, but it takes longer.
4. Finally, plenty of people are technophobes. I'm not, but I do know a few! They're simply not comfortable with using electronic devices for reading.
1. Ah, the pleasure of a brand-new book! Many people give this as a reason for preferring paperbacks and hardbacks to e-books. There's something incredibly sensual about holding a new book purchase, smelling its pages and feeling the smoothness of the cover beneath one's fingers. How can an electronic version compete? Straight answer - it can't. Set beside their physical counterparts, e-books appear somewhat homely at best. And doesn't a well-stocked bookcase add something wonderful to a room?
2. Whilst textbooks are becoming increasingly digital, there are some books that undoubtedly do better in physical format. Cookery books, for one, with their glossy pages full of photos of wonderful culinary delights, look much better in a physical format. So do the types of books destined for life on the coffee table - exotic travel tomes, photographic books and the like - against which digital versions can't as yet compare.
3. For me, it's easier to flip backwards and forwards in a physical book. I can skim through the pages of one really quickly with my fingers. Not so with an e-book using the content/search facilities on my Kindle - sure, I can do it, but it takes longer.
4. Finally, plenty of people are technophobes. I'm not, but I do know a few! They're simply not comfortable with using electronic devices for reading.
What's your preference? Ebook or actual?
So what's your stance on the e-book versus actual book debate? Are you one of the many people who savour the feel and smell of a real book in their hands, something which will grace their bookshelves and hallmark them as a bookworm? Or do you love the convenience and cheapness of e-books, loading your e-reader or tablet up with the latest bargains as they hit the digital shelves? Maybe you're like me, mixing the tangible with the digital as it suits. Leave a comment and let me know!
48 Comments
Definitely real books for me. I miss the feel, smell and touch of a proper book when I’m reading ebooks. Plus I like to see them on a shelf.
Real books are gorgeous! A well-stocked bookcase brings a room to life, in my opinion.
The engaging writing style kept me captivated throughout the article. If you're a fan of storytelling, <a href="https://www.digistore24.com/redir/527544/Verma1982/" target="_blank">click here</a> for more captivating narratives on related topics.
We provide professional book illustration services that bring stories to life through captivating, custom artwork. Whether you're publishing a children’s book, graphic novel, or fantasy epic, our illustrators work closely with you to match your vision and style. From character design and scene creation to cover art and layout, we turn words into vivid visuals that enhance your story and engage readers of all ages.
Comprehensive publishing services from manuscript review to worldwide distribution.
Olympus Scanlation is a fan translation group known for scanning, translating, and editing manga or comics for English-speaking audiences.
A professional treatment facility in San Luis Obispo focused on substance abuse and mental health recovery.
24/7 residential programs in Georgia offering intensive mental health care and support.
Detox Centers in Nashville, TN, offer comprehensive detox programs for drug and alcohol addiction. These centers combine medical care, counseling, and ongoing support to promote lasting sobriety.
An evidence-based therapy that helps people change negative thoughts and behaviors to improve mood and overall mental health.
Schizophrenia treatment centers in Los Angeles offer structured psychiatric care, medication management, and supportive therapy for long-term symptom control.
Book illustration adds visuals that bring stories and characters to life.
Audiobook publishing services provide a complete solution for turning a book into audio format. From professional narration to audio editing and distribution on platforms like Audible and iTunes, these services make books accessible to listeners who prefer audio content.
Los Angeles mental health treatment programs deliver comprehensive care for a wide range of mental health conditions through evidence-based therapies and licensed professionals.
A book written specifically for children, often featuring simple language, illustrations, and engaging stories.
Professional audiobook production and distribution services. Includes narration, recording, and release on major audio platforms.
Top children's book publishers in the USA in 2025 focus on creative storytelling, colorful illustrations, and strong marketing to help young readers discover inspiring stories.
Audiobook publishing services assist authors in recording, producing, and distributing audiobooks on platforms such as Audible, Amazon, and iTunes.
Book publishing services in the USA include manuscript editing, cover design, formatting, printing, and distribution for both new and experienced authors.
Professional services including editing, formatting, cover design, printing, distribution, and marketing for authors.
A book publisher manages the editing, design, production, distribution, and promotion of books to bring authors' work to readers.
Self-publishing companies in Chicago help authors publish and distribute their books while maintaining full creative control. They often offer editing, formatting, printing, and marketing services.
Judaism: A Very Short Introduction – A concise overview of Judaism, its history, beliefs, and traditions.
Join a determined sheriff solving a puzzling and dangerous investigation.
Publishing assistance for authors using Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing to release books independently.
Orthodox Bible Teachings: Explore biblical teachings and interpretations within Orthodox Jewish tradition and religious study.
Digital Identity Suspense Fiction Novel Paperback: A suspenseful story combining digital identity, cybersecurity, mystery, and near-future technology.
Mystery With Forensic Laboratory Analysis: A compelling mystery where laboratory analysis and scientific evidence help uncover the truth.
Sci-fi thriller books combine futuristic science or technology with suspense, danger, mystery, and fast-paced storytelling.
Criminal Psychology Books: Discover books exploring criminal behavior, psychological theories, investigations, and the minds behind crime.
Best Book Publisher for New Authors: Publishing support for new authors seeking professional guidance from manuscript to publication.
US Self Book Publishing Company: A U.S.-based self-publishing option providing authors with professional publishing support.
US Audiobook Production Companies: U.S. audiobook production companies helping transform written books into professionally produced audio editions.
Best Fiction Book Publishers: Professional publishing options for fiction authors seeking editorial and publishing support.
Self Publishing Book Publisher: Self-publishing services helping authors independently publish professional-quality books.
Book Publishing Packages for Authors: Flexible publishing packages combining essential services to help authors efficiently prepare and publish their books.
KDP book publishing allows authors to independently publish ebooks and print books through Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing.
Publishing companies for new writers support emerging authors who want to transform their manuscripts into professionally produced books. Publishing assistance may include editing, design, formatting, distribution, and other services required to prepare a book for readers.
Publishing companies for new writers support emerging authors who want to transform their manuscripts into professionally produced books. Publishing assistance may include editing, design, formatting, distribution, and other services required to prepare a book for readers.
Understanding how to publish a book starts with completing and editing the manuscript before preparing professional interior formatting and cover artwork.
Amazon self-publishing gives independent authors an opportunity to release their books directly to readers without following the traditional publishing route.
Can Dogs Talk: A playful children's book exploring the imaginative idea of dogs communicating with people in their own special way.
Book Publishing Company New Jersey — A New Jersey publishing company helping authors turn manuscripts into professionally published books.
Print Your Own Book — Create a professionally printed book by preparing your manuscript, cover, formatting, and print-ready files.
Explore book printing options connected with Barnes & Noble and discover ways to prepare quality printed editions for readers. Learn about production, publishing, distribution, and opportunities to make books available through established channels.
Publish your book independently through Amazon's self-publishing services and manage your book's pricing, formats, and royalties.
Discover how to self-publish your book while maintaining control over its content, design, pricing, and distribution.
Khelv is a modern platform designed to deliver an engaging and user-friendly digital experience.