I’m not so sure about this Kindle Kraze.
See, despite my long-held love affair with all things online, I just can’t bring myself to jump on the Kindle bandwagon.
Why? In short, I’m a bibliophile. I own well over 200 books; half of which are either first editions or signed–some, even both. I have read, I am certain, well over 1,000 books in my life time (I catalogued my massive reading list on Shelfari.com, a social networking site dedicated to readers that is now owned by Amazon).
Oh, I’m sure that the publishers and authors are lovin’ it–the Amazon business model requires every reader to buy his own book. No more sharing, giving or selling used books.
But, I wonder, what kind of cut the authors get from the publishers? I wonder how much money the publishing companies are saving from printing? I wonder how many print houses will close down, following the path of our newspapers?
At least the publishing houses are a few steps ahead of the newspapers: might save a few more jobs.
Toby, Greg and I were discussing Amazon’s business model at lunch the other–yes, we do actually meet in person–and wondered if Amazon would change its business model to allow for monthly subscriptions so you could rent a couple of books per month. Or maybe sell household accounts.
Personally, I won’t even consider buying a Kindle until they display in color, include easy e-mail access and phone capabilities and, essentially, replace my phone. If you knew me, you’d know I’m the same way about computers and TVs–I’m waiting for one machine.
Amazon will get there, I’m sure, within the next 5 years.
The upside? In five years, the value of my book collection will have doubled 🙂