Beginning 2011 with a new Amazon Kindle

I recently purchased an Amazon Kindle with the basic wi-fi version during the holiday. I want to make it clear that I'm not a "techie" electronic-oriented person. I love my physical books and I keep all of my electronic devices very basic on a "need" to use basis.

I purchased the Kindle out of curiosity and the fact that my own books ( Compulsion , Dead Game, Silent Partner ) are on Kindle. I also have been receiving ebooks via the computer and I don't like sitting longer at my desk in order to read them. I knew that I could return it if I didn't like it, so I jumped into uncertain waters.

I was surprised. Let me emphasize, I'm really surprised. I actually love my Kindle! I know, I know, for those of you that know me personally are chuckling right now. I seem to buck the system a little bit when it comes to newest technological gadgets.

I wanted to share some of my thoughts about Kindle. This isn't an intentional plug for Amazon, but rather, I wanted to share with you from my own limited electronic point of view.

Pros

I received my Kindle quickly in two days with free shipping. Great customer service and excellent packaging. It's simple to set up, the menus are clear and organized. The font is nice, you can darken or lighten it to preference. You can change the size of font too. You can search Google and Amazon. You can order right from your Kindle (this is very cool). You can also read magazines, newspapers, and blogs. You can read in bright sunlight and there's no glare (I tested this out for myself). The text to speech is a nice feature (it isn't applicable for all books). Note: it's a very electronic, computer voice, like what you hear when you call for customer support. Long battery life makes it convenient. This is a great reading device specifically for novels and an efficient way to store favorite titles.

Cons

I found that reading magazines, newspapers, and blogs to be annoying. Remember, it's a black and white screen and if you want to see photos of interest from various other sources, it's a bit heavy and difficult to read. For me personally, I would not use a Kindle to read criminology/forensic textbooks, photography books, coffee table books, cookbooks, etc. These books are too cumbersome to read on a Kindle. The tiny keyboard is a little difficult to use, but you would probably wouldn't use very often. However, it's a nice feature to make quick notes especially for book reviewers.

Recommendations

I would highly recommend that you purchase a case (I purchased a nice black, leather case). It will protect it from scratches and everyday bumps and jostles. "Like" Amazon Kindle on Facebook. There are some great tips posted.

Jennifer ChaseAward Winning Author & Criminologist

Blog: http://authorjenniferchase.blogspot.com/

Website: http://jenniferchase.vpweb.com/

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