Does anyone ever actually read an entire book in PDF format?
Last week Tony Kummer pointed out that the number of free online books available at the Desiring God website has increased. Looking over the list, I noticed that some of these books are brand new, like Spectacular Sins: And Their Global Purpose in the Glory of Christ
Those are both books that I’d like to read, but I think I’d rather pay for the printed version than read a free electronic version. I do read articles and sometimes portions of books online, but if a book is good I would prefer to have a copy that I can mark up and take anywhere.
So, back to my original question, I’m curious whether any of you ever actually read an entire book online? Obviously (in this case anyway) it’s cheaper to read them sitting at your computer. Are there any other advantages? Aside from the cost I see only disadvantages.
(Note: I just fixed two links and added one)
Barry Wallace
theoparadox
pijohnson
October 27, 2008 at 8:32 am |
Barry:
Call me old fashioned, but I have to have a book in my hands or I cannot call it reading. Sure I can read blogs and news articles on line, but a book, no way!
It is worse for me. I am amazed at what I miss when I read a seminary paper on my laptop, think it looks great and then print it out to turn in. When I see it in print, there is usually at least one Huh? as I read it through.
Somehow I am wired for print. My be how I was taught to read all those years ago.
October 27, 2008 at 1:11 pm |
I, like you and Andy, prefer reading a book than a PDF. But the form factor (portable) is the key to understanding its usefulness. There have numerous times where I’ve used portions of a book for a study or a class. Being able to print out just that portion to share is advantageous. With many of these books including study questions in the back, you can’t pass them up. Also, consider the fact that you can have several great books on your laptop on a long trip rather than carrying around a lot of books. Very portable, indeed.
October 27, 2008 at 1:25 pm |
Tony,
Thanks for pointing out what I would have to agree with you are two definite advantages–portability and printability!
July 1, 2009 at 11:07 am |
Now that I’ve got the Amazon Kindle DX, I just drag and drop those free pdfs to it, and read like crazy! It’s great!
July 1, 2009 at 12:34 pm |
That’s a sweet looking device. I may have to get one… some day. Thanks for stopping by.