While writing an earlier post, I realized that, in my advanced age of middle-ish 40s, I’ve developed specific preferences for reading formats. Please tell me I’m not alone!
Ebooks
For quick or light books that I get through quickly—like fiction—I prefer reading ebooks on my Kindle or phone. I’m currently making my way through Emma St. Clair’s romantic comedy series available on Kindle Unlimited. (As much as I love mystery-suspense and thrillers, I enjoy mixing in some romance, too.) The Bluff is next up on my ebook reading list.
Paperback
I don’t buy paperbacks often, but when I do, it’s either a fiction book I’m confident I will enjoy and want to read again or a writing craft book. After more than a decade of managing a book review blog, my several bookshelves are pretty full, so I’m selective regarding the physical books I buy. I’m overdue for purchasing a good fiction novel, and I’d love to hear your suggestions!
Hardcover
For nonfiction books that I like to ponder and take notes as I read—such as historical, political, self-help and productivity—I prefer hardcover. When I find a fiction series I love, it’s hard to resist purchasing the hardcovers to place where I can easily see them. There’s a particular joy in seeing the spines of a beloved or memorable series lined up on my bookshelves.
Audiobooks
This is where I admit to it being over ten years since I listened to an audiobook. I understand the appeal, especially for busy people who don’t have much time to sit down and read, and for the accessability features that audibooks offer. I also don’t listen to podcasts too often (surprising from someone who created and moderated one for years, I know), so maybe my preference for visual input has increased as I’ve gotten older. Or because I don’t spend as much time in the car as I used to when commuting and carpooling create a convenient opportunity to listen to an audiobook.
Several of my colleagues listen to audiobooks, and recommended Trevor Noah’s Born a Crime. They insist that I listen to the audiobook version as it is narrated by Trevor Noah, which makes it an even better experience. Maybe that will be my gateway into audiobooks, and I’ll have to update my preference for them here.
What About You?
Is there a format you prefer over all others? Or will you read in any and all formats? What do you love or hate about certain formats?