Love Hate

I received some cash for Christmas and I decided to spend it on something that I wouldn't normally buy. After much deliberation, I settled on a Nook tablet. It's a sleek little gadget, filled with the promise of jetting me forward into a world of technological wonderment. Gratefully, I had no trouble getting it up and running. Apparently, the techno-geeks of the world have figured out just how stupid some of us can be when it comes to setting up new toys.

After a month of working with my new gizmo, the jury is still out as to whether it is a friend or foe. My initial goal was to check a book out from my public library. After downloading the necessary "app" (and other sundry stuff I'm sure I don't need), I successfully borrowed my first official book. Now begins the love-hate relationship.

I love the fact that I don't have to worry about the library closing when I'm down to my last book. I downloaded a book on Christmas day and never left the comfort of my own couch. Sweet.

I also like the idea of not carrying around ten pounds of books  when I travel. I no longer have to fear that I will leave a borrowed book behind and have my wages garnished indefinitely by the library. Books just fade away into cyberland when they are due back on their imaginary shelf. No more overdue fees or stern reminder calls from the automated Dewey voice.

Perhaps best of all is the ability to interact with the text. My worn out eyes appreciate the ability to change font sizes. The lighted screen is an additional bonus when natural lighting fails. And just a tap on the screen connects me to a dictionary when I need word clarification. What's not to love?

Well, it turns out there is one big disadvantage. I miss my books. The paper and dust jacket kind. The kind that doesn't need to be plugged in after so many hours. For over fifty years I have been transported into worlds beyond by opening a set of pages bound by a singular spine. I have rummaged around for bookmarks to hold my spot until my next reading engagement. I propped many books just right in bed so that I could enjoy a few more minutes of reading before they slipped out of my hands and reminded me that the day was done.

I miss the feel and smell of books. I miss browsing through real books on real shelves with real librarians near by. I miss the sense of anticipation that comes with touching a tangible object that is filled with the promise of new adventures.

Yes, my Nook is a tangible object. Yes, an e-reader has words and and little bitty book covers for one to enjoy. And yes, electronic reading is more convenient, less bulky and filled with additional features. But, no, I don't love my Nook yet.

Unless it's time for the next level of Candy Crush. Move over words and make way for the color bomb.