The Votes are In - Kindle Rocks!

During my last post, I mentioned that we had purchased two Kindle eBook readers for the OE Library. I'd like to tell you about some of the features, in bulleted format:

- Very slim design (we have the second generation Kindle models). For more information on the various models, see: www.amazon.com
- Super short learning curve. However, these Kindles are packed with features we are still discovering. So, in short, you can be up and reading within minutes. Later, when you explore, you will discover all sorts of cool ways to use this device (such as using the cursor to "hover" in front of a word for which you need a definition -- one will appear the bottom of the screen).
- Instantaneous gratification. With Kindle's Whispernet technology (their wireless platform) you will be able to search the Amazon store for titles, and download them extremely quickly. I found this to be true at home, on the subway in Chicago, on a train, and in our car out in the middle of nowhere (Iowa)!
- Buyer's remorse? Not a problem. With the Kindle, if you accidently order a book you really don't want, you can immediately retrieve that purchase.
- Large font sizes are available. For middle-aged people, and younger students, this is a great boon. If you don't need a large font size, then you can simply arrange the type to appear in the size that is most comfortable for you.
- Lightweight - the Kindle is super easy to throw into a purse, backpack, messenger bag, tote bag, etc. It is small, thin, and weighs less than a pound. When you realize just how many novels you can load into the Kindle, it is hard to believe that you will never develop back strain (or even hand strain) from using large, heavy books.

I could go on and on, but I also want to mention that we are still exploring. How will we use this semi-fragile device with students? Is there a protective, and yet rigid, skin we can purchase to protect the screen? I like the idea of using Kindles for students who are not comfortable reading text yet, operating the text read-aloud function as an aid for helping them to decode text as they hear it being read aloud.

And, because I am reviewing this product, I do have a couple of suggestions for Amazon:

1. Build a backlight into the Kindle design. For those who like to read in bed, on a darkened plane, train, or automobile, or in a situation where you don't want to disturb others (maybe you arrived at the movie theater early to get your seat and have a 30-minute wait), a backlight would be most welcome.

2. The search interface isn't pretty. It works, but there must be a way to make searching the Kindle store into a more seamless experience as it is with Amazon on the PC or Mac. You have a better experience searching if you know the title ahead of time, rather than simply going on a fun search. I recommend looking at the New York Times bestseller list as a starting place. I also wish the buyer reviews were easier to access.

My next post will be about revisiting a fun, elementary school event right here in our high school. Coming soon in April! Oh, and Happy Birthday to you, Dr. Seuss. I still remember my days of reading about Yertle the Turtle!