Letters Home

When we relocated to Switzerland, we had to get rid of all the stuff. The most challenging task for me was parting with my books. Our study held a complete shelf dedicated to books that encapsulated different periods and experiences of my life. Anyone looking at them could discern my preferences and the challenges I have faced through the titles alone. I carefully packed away some particularly precious books into a box. The rest of my books had to find new homes. I gave them away, hoping they would bring their new owners joy, insight, or wisdom.

My move from print to electronic books

Moving to Switzerland inspired me to change my reading habits. I faced a pragmatic reality with a scarcity of English titles in local bookstores, their steep prices, and the constraint of limited storage space in our apartment. Embracing a minimalist ethos upon our move, I consciously opted for fewer possessions and a more respectful approach to consumption. However, change is not easy. I love the experience of holding and smelling the distinct aroma of a printed book. However, the writing was on the wall, and transitioning to electronic formats was inevitable. Charl’s longstanding use of his Kindle e-book reader was a testament to the practicality and convenience of embracing this shift.

I started by downloading the Kindle app on my iPad. Purchasing eBooks from Amazon meant they seamlessly synced to my device, ready for reading. I often enjoy reading during train rides or while waiting, but carrying the iPad everywhere became cumbersome. So, I decided to install the Kindle app on my phone instead. Since I always have my phone, it is much more convenient. Plus, I appreciate the option to enlarge the text as my eyesight gradually weakens with ageing.

Advantages of electronic books

Besides the convenience of having access to all my books in one place on my phone, I have since discovered other advantages of reading my books in electronic format.

Built-in dictionaries

The Kindle application offers access to multiple dictionaries, allowing me to look up unfamiliar words and enrich my vocabulary. When we relocated to Switzerland, learning German became essential. I found German children’s storybooks and utilised the electronic dictionary to learn new words effortlessly. These German booklets were conveniently available for free on Amazon.de.

Study or research

We had to purchase textbooks for an online course presented in South Africa. It was logistically challenging to obtain the printed book, but Amazon offered an eBook solution for a quarter of the price. I also loaded the Kindle application on my computer to read the book. The application functionality allows me to highlight certain aspects of the book in different colours and to make notes. I can access the book and my notes on my computer and phone during the online classes.

Affordable

The Kindle versions of numerous books are more affordable than their print counterparts, with older titles often offered for free. For instance, my fondness for the Netflix series, “Anne with an E” led me to purchase the corresponding books. To my delight, I could download all Lucy Maud Montgomery’s Anne books for free onto my Kindle.

Moreover, many authors offer the first book in a series for free, allowing readers to see if they enjoy the initial book before purchasing more books from the same author. I have stumbled upon some remarkable authors through these complimentary offerings. Once you find an author you appreciate, Amazon allows you to express your interest, prompting notifications for new releases from that author.

Access to a large selection of books

Amazon and other eBook platforms provide access to an extensive array of titles. When you’re keen on a specific topic, you can utilise search engines to discover available books and glean more information about them. Additionally, you typically can preview the first few pages of a book to gauge your interest before purchasing.

In our interconnected world, electronic books offer broader accessibility. I prefer reading in my native language and enjoy supporting Afrikaans authors. Thanks to eBooks, I can access Afrikaans literature while residing abroad in Switzerland.

Family members can share books

To maintain Zander’s Afrikaans, I wanted to provide him with age-appropriate books in Afrikaans. I could buy such books on Amazon and then have him as part of the Amazon Household option.

Family Library helps you share digital content with the eligible family members added to your Amazon Household. You can link two adult Amazon accounts to share eBooks, audiobooks, apps, and games.

Self-publishing is easier

The rise of electronic books has simplified and reduced the costs associated with self-publishing for aspiring authors. Traditional publishing entails uncertainties regarding reader interest and high initial printing expenses. However, platforms like Amazon offer accessible and cost-effective self-publishing options, making books readily available worldwide.

I am exploring self-publishing and aim to release my first Kindle book by the end of May. If you haven’t delved into eBooks yet, I encourage you to try them out. I hope my letter has piqued your interest.

Regards

Emsia