There is nothing more frustrating than taking the plunge to finally purchase an e-reader that has a display status of OFF. I'm on the verge of a move. Having packed 32 boxes of books and still counting is not the least bit attractive. So, I decide to upgrade the nerd in me and make that purchase. I've done all of my research and read all of the online reviews. I've even done the comparison test and plan to visit the e-readers in order of buying preference from my online experience. Please know that the ingenious Apple IPAD will have to decrease in price for my buying consideration.
Now, it's time to do the "look and feel" test. What's the look and feel test? It's the open-hand pose as your reading. The grip pose upon interruption from non-readers. It's the bag lady prevention test also known as the will-it-fit-in-my purse test. Don't forget the close-the-book reflection pose. You know this pose, it's when you close the book, look afar and clench the book against your chest like you wrote the words.....you know what I'm talking about.
First stop - Barnes and Noble bookstore! I arrive all excited, head to the center of the store and the damn thing is not even capable of being turned on. It's just sitting there - shiny, elegant with cardboard words all around and a very blank screen. Arrghhh! I go in for the reach and a black string creates this magnetic pull. Oh brother! No, I don't want your inoperable display unit. Suddenly a voice, "If you like, I can order one for you right here." A quick delivery of my infamous Jerry Lewis look, a "Hey Lady, just call me when you turn it on" and I'm off to the next store.
We all know that we cannot see the Kindle up close and personal without buying it first, but I had a chance to check out one from a complete stranger. Yes - a stranger! These folks can often be found in coffee shops. Perhaps you haven't met me? I WILL perform random acts of flattery and intelligent conversation for the "look and feel" of an e-reader. This kind stranger is holding Kindle 2 - sweet, I like the display. No pain on the eyes. It fits in the purse. I stage three acting poses and I'm satisfied. Not overly sensitive to the touch, enlarged font, easy book purchasing, and just lovely. So, I'm pro Kindle at the moment.
Next, I have to see the Sony e-reader. I'm down the street from Target so I'll just hop in there and check it out. ARGGHHH!!! It's off. What is the fun in that? The old version and the new version are off. Geez, what do I compare - the density of the black screen and the coloring on the cardboard cues? It's like buying a TV who's display set says "Energy Efficient - Plug me in at home". Just tacky.
So, it's the end of the day and I'm home knowing I can purchase any of these e-readers online. But I don't make the purchase because my total customer experience was not influential. Self-inflicted or not, I'm not a buyer of ease, so don't play me cheap! Turn on the display model and welcome readers like me. I'm more than an avid reader. I'm a woman defined within my own right. A book blogger and a reader aggregator with a well-known book addiction for which there aren't any anonymous meetings. I'm incurable. I have a problem and I intend to do nothing about it but go green. So, please turn on the damn display e-reader and enhance my customer experience or I will be seeking hugs from unknown illy willys like my friend over there. There are thousands of us. Welcome to Book Addicts Anonymous (BAA) - Step 1.
Step 1 - Admit that you have a problem - DONE!
____________________________________________________
Book Addicts Anonymous (BAA) is a 12 step program of comedic, flash fiction that's somewhat based on a true story. It's my exploration into fixing a serious problem and inspiring all book addicts to go green. I've hurt family and friends, squandered money, cut out the kids' snacks, thrown out their toys just to purchase and store my books. I've lied and misled everyone. As the only member of this group, I will have to advise myself through each step. It's time to get clean and go green. It won't be easy. Comments are always welcome.
3 comments:
Love this, Trig! Very humorous. The photos are great, too. Well done! GL
Trig,
This was so funny...I loved it! Yes, there needs to be a support group for us.
1.) We buy books when we have so many at home unread.
2.) We check out books and put others on reserve.
3.) We zero in on any material about books, whether reviews or author signings.
4.) We are "hooked on books" and we love it!
(I own an e-reader but alas don't use it very much...prefer the touch of a book.)
@Gale Thanks so much for your comments. That means a lot coming from you.
@Lynne, I feel like we are Kindred Spirits..HA! You are so right. I hadn't even thought about the library reserve compulsion.
This will be an interesting journey of self discovery.
Post a Comment