In general, I am someone who reads very quickly, within a week remembers only key points, but as soon as I start to re-read the book I then remember every detail. A few books are an exception, but this is my general experience. I don't know if there are others who experience this as well, but that's how my brain works. I think that's why my writing is very fast paced and very visual - it helps people like me retain more of what they read.
Anyway - here is a quick list of the benefits and negatives I have found by going e:
Benefits:
- You can start reading as soon as you even hear about a book - love the immediate gratification
- You can bring a ton of books with you on a trip - I have been known to pack over 10 pounds of books during travel
- It's physically easier to read - not having to adjust positions because a book is getting heavy in the hands is definitely a positive
- I can mark areas of interest and find them again easily without using so many post-its that my book looks like it is fringed
- I am having trouble remembering the titles of the books I've read - I have no visual of the cover art to keep reinforcing the title in my head
- I am having trouble remembering the authors - the above point impacts this, but also I didn't have to force myself to remember both the author of interest and to get my backside to the bookstore
- The social activities of reading are diminished - hey, I work in publishing. I get why sharing books is not a positive from a business perspective and deprives authors of well earned royalties. However there is a communal aspect in showing and sharing your library, of taking a beloved book out and discussing it with a friend.
- There isn't a special way to store, and keep seeing, such a beloved book - I like looking at my bookshelves, seeing a book I enjoyed and remembering the experience.
