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Posts Tagged e-book
Delayed E-Book Releases – Smart or Annoying?
Posted by Sarah in Jewish Books, Publishing on January 5, 2010
No one can deny it. The e-book is here and it’s here to stay. Whether you’re for or against the e-reader doesn’t change the heart of the matter. The question now is how will the publishing industry adapt to the advent of such a new and exciting technology?
Many are concerned that as devices like Kindle, Nook, and the Sony Reader continue to take over the reading world, printed books will cease to exist. A very scary thought.
So, what is the publishing industry to do?
Well, if you’re Simon & Schuster, you’ve already thought of a solution. The question is, is it the right one? In an effort to address new technologies while continuing to sell printed materials, Simon & Schuster has decided to delay the sale of their publications’ e-books, only making them available four months after the initial hardcover release. And, they’re not the only ones, with companies like HarperCollins and Hachette Book Group following suit.
So, is this an ingenious plan or a childish antic?
Some believe that this makes sense. Wait a few months, let the printed version sell, and then release the e-book for those who desperately want it for their electronic devices. That way, everyone wins. As Simon & Schuster spokesman Adam Rothberg states,
We understand that there is an urge with digital media to have it more, faster, now. We’re trying to hit upon a happy medium.
But, some don’t agree. They argue that waiting to release an e-book version doesn’t cater to what the public wants most. Instead, these people believe that publishers are sticking to an antiquated system of scheduled releases (hardcover first, paperback second, etc) that doesn’t fit with the public’s desire. And, after all, aren’t the customers’ needs supposed to be priority #1?
Whether you agree with the publishers’ plan or not, be prepared to wait a little while for the e-book version of some of 2010’s exciting new releases. And remember, it’s not so bad. Reading print books is still an experience all its own!
-Sarah
Easy-to-Keep New Year’s Resolutions!
Posted by Sarah in JPS Books, Publishing, Uncategorized on December 29, 2009
New Year’s – one of those really big flashy holidays where everything glitters. Literally. People sit around with bubbly champagne, crazy hats, and a list of things they plan to do differently in the coming year.
That’s right, the infamous list of New Year’s resolutions. The things each person wants to change, but rarely does. So, maybe it’s time to find some New Year’s resolutions that you can easily accomplish! Need some help? Here are some easy resolutions just for you, from JPS:
1. Read a book that you’d never think to read – Ever get too caught up in the things you know you like and forget about trying something new? The New Year is a perfect time to branch out and read a book that is totally out of your comfort zone. Whether it’s a New York Times bestseller, a used out-of-print novel, or a JPS title , I can guarantee you that the books you may be least likely to read are sometimes the ones that surprise you most. So, take a chance!
2. Comment on a blog – whether you’re a fan or not, blogs are here to stay (woohoo!), so you might as well take part in the action! Bloggers, myself included, love to hear what readers have to say. I mean, after all, it IS an interactive community, meaning we thrive off comments and discussion. Even if you disagree with what’s being said, tell us! It spices up the conversation.
3. Try an e-book – Yes, I know I’ve made it clear that I’m not entirely sold on e-readers and e-books, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t see what they’re like! Got an iPod touch? Or a friend with a Kindle? If so, take some time to check out a device, and then let us know what you think! We’re always interested in hearing more about the print vs. e-book debate.
Try out these simple resolutions, and start out the New Year on a high. Good luck!
-Sarah
The Apple Tablet – Amazing? Or Another Nail in the Coffin?
Posted by Sarah in Publishing, Uncategorized on December 1, 2009
I should start off by being completely honest. I’m a Mac. I’ve only ever owned Apple computers and iPods, and that’s the way I like it. So, as the rumors of the Apple Tablet continue to swirl through the technology realm, one must assume that if true, I will be an immediate fan. The thing is, I’m not so sure. Of everything I’ve read, the Tablet really just seems like a bigger iPod Touch.
Which makes me wonder. What’s the point?
As an iPod Touch owner, I’m very satisfied with what I have, so why would I switch to something larger?
It seems that the answer lies in the explosion of e-reading devices. Assumedly, Apple is creating a bigger screen to making reading easier. So, now we get to my dilemma. I love Apple, but I’m not sold on e-readers. I like print books – the feel of paper and the idea of holding something tangible. And the battle between print and digital media rages on. Will the Tablet be just another reason for people to shift from print books to e-materials? Who knows? For now though, no worries. Apple hasn’t officially announced the Tablet yet, which gives me more time to figure out whether I’ll want one.
One thing’s for sure, it’s bound to be cool.
-Sarah
Is the E-Book Good for the Jews?
Posted by Sarah in Publishing on September 22, 2009
“I read books every day. On the subway, at home and at my local library, where I know the librarians and keep track of the shelves they restock.
Source: http://www.newvoices.org
But my love of books may be going out of style. This year Amazon released the second generation of the Kindle, software that allows readers to access hundreds of books from a handheld digital device. According to Amazon’s website, the Kindle “reads like real paper,” is “lighter than a typical paperback” and can even read text out loud. The Kindle Store sells over 320,000 books and Apple has introduced a Kindle application in the iPhone App Store.
So nu, is it good for the Jews?”
To read the entire article, visit New Voices and see what JPS’s resident social media guru, Alx Block, has to say on the topic.
-Sarah
