Writing 101: Electronic books

September 23, 3:53 PMWriting ExaminerTiffany Colter

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  Are the days of printed books coming to an end?

     It was only a few years ago, when the early pioneers began work on e-books. At that time it was something that was revolutionary, but cumbersome. The only option was to read a full book from their computer [which usually meant at their desk since laptops were stiff regularly 4 figures].

     With the birth of the Sony E-reader, Kindle and now other emerging readers, this is all changing. Publisher’s Weekly is today announcing that IREX is unveiling a digital device.

Publisher’s weekly is reporting

[that this product offers wireless downloading of e-books and newspapers. This e-reader, which seeks to compete with similar features on the Sony and Amazon products, will partner with Barnes & Noble. One unique addition is this e-reader allows customers to use wireless networks outside the US.

     What does this mean to writers?

     It means that writers need to become increasingly visible online. The idea of book signings and public appearances are more and more outdated. Readers want to interact with the books they read as well as with the authors who write them.

     This also means that there is now the potential for impulse buying. As these devices are more and more affordable, the wise author will find ways to capitalize on the use of these products by integrating links digital downloads and buy-it-now features on their websites. Consider what itunes did in music. The idea of purchasing a CD for $12-$20 is becoming antiquated but people are willing to buy songs a la carte for 99 cents. Could this be the future in publishing?

     Furthermore, this will mean new negotiations between authors and publishing houses. As agent Chip Macgregor has said a number of times on

his blog

, the typical idea of royalties needs to be re-examined as the cost for binding materials is increasingly eliminated from the cost of book production.

     E-books are finally gaining legitimacy and with a growing generation who is comfortable with iPhones, iPods, Instant Messages and texting, the idea of reading a book online rather than carrying a stack of books will likely grow in popularity. A smart author will start now to see how to reach this audience.