The Great Debate: eBook or Printed Book by Shelley Malicote Stutchman
I loathe the thought of eBooks. Give me a physical book any day. The weight of the book in my hands, the pages between my fingers, and the smell from the spine. My nightstand is always adorned with a paperback, waiting for me to dive into its world. And what's even better? Sharing this joy with loved ones by gifting carefully chosen titles or obtaining coveted author autographs. Sorry, eBooks can't compete.
In a recent heart-to-heart with my cousin, she shared her appreciation for eBooks. She said, "Since my husband died, I feel lonely when eating out at a restaurant."
She explained by bringing her phone and delving into an eBook; she finds solace in the virtual company it provides.
My cousin added that she battles arthritis in her hands daily. The pain makes it difficult for her to hold heavy books. Sighing, she said, "Thank goodness for my Kindle and phone. Their lightweight allows me to indulge in my love for reading without enduring any pain."
As she listed the benefits of eBooks, I crossed my arms and stubbornly held onto my preference for physical books. But as she passionately explained how easily accessible eBooks were for those with disabilities, I uncrossed my arms and leaned closer. By the end of our conversation, I had realized that eBooks serve a valuable purpose for many readers and can coexist peacefully alongside physical books in the literary world.
eBook Sales Lag
I researched the Internet to find out which was more popular: eBooks or printed books.
According to the most recent survey by the Pew Research Center on book consumption and book formats, traditional print is still the most popular reading format for adults and children.
Survey says:
• 75% of adults in the United States read a book in some format over the last year
• 32% of Americans claim they only read print books
• 33% say they read both print books and e-books
• 9% say they only read e-books
• 23% of the respondents said that they don't read books
Print books out-sell eBooks 4 to 1.
Cited: Errea, R. (2023, May 31). Printed books vs eBooks statistics, trends and facts [2024]. Toner Buzz. Retrieved December 9, 2024, from https://www.tonerbuzz.com/blog/paper-books-vs-ebooks-statistics/
Digital Fatigue
I was surprised to learn that the younger generation is turning away from eBooks and choosing printed books. They crave a break from their screens. This trend is highest among the eighteen- to twenty-four-year-old age group. Thirty-seven percent in this age range wish to escape their electronic devices. In contrast, only fifteen percent of the older population, aged sixty-five and over, feel a need to escape from their electronic reading devices. The allure of a traditional book, with its crisp pages and distinct smell, continues to be a haven in our increasingly digital world.
Why Write eBooks?
One of the advantages of writing an eBook is the cost savings compared to publishing a print book. Unlike traditional books, the author does not need to spend money on printing and distribution. Even with digital publishing, your manuscript must be as error-free as possible. Hiring a professional editor is recommended unless you have supernatural editing abilities. Those pesky tiny mistakes will still appear on a Kindle screen or someone's phone, just as they would in a physical book. Don't let carelessness or typos diminish the quality of your eBook for readers.
As an author, you can't underestimate the importance of a professional cover for your eBook. Like traditional books, covers and titles are the attention-grabbers for your work. Your cover is the first impression for potential readers to explore your book. A well-designed cover can set your eBook apart from others in a crowded market. Otherwise, there's a good chance your eBook may go unnoticed among the sea of other digital works. Invest in a quality cover design so your book stands out to potential readers.
Kindle Unlimited and Author’s Payment
I wondered how to earn money from my book since people with Kindle Unlimited didn't have to pay to read it. While I understood this was great for readers, I wondered how it worked for authors. Authors whose books are part of the Kindle Unlimited library are paid by the number of pages read in a month rather than purchases or downloads. On average, authors receive half a cent per page read. The more pages read, the higher the payout. For instance, if readers fully read your two-hundred-page book at 0.005 cents per page, you can expect to make around $1.00. This may seem like a little initially, but if one hundred readers download and finish your book, you could make one hundred dollars. The decision to enroll in this program is entirely up to you. I chose to enroll my book in hopes that the more people who read it, the more they would suggest it to others.
Final Thoughts on eBooks
• Lack of a physical object. (It takes up no space in your home, which is already full of books.)
• Is more portable than a print book. (It makes taking the digital book effortless to get to the beach or on your vacation.)
• eBooks take up very little data. (Good news if you don’t have an unlimited data plan.)
• eBooks have no limited font size. (Forgot your glasses? Enlarge the print.)
• eBooks are easier on the environment. (Save a tree.)
Final Thoughts on Print Books
• A print book is beautiful to look at. (Each cover is a piece of art.)
• A print book provides a tactile experience. (Print books fill those needs for those who love the feel of things.)
• You can feel a print book, smell it, and if you are like me, you can hug the book to your heart. (Just not the same experience as with a digital book.)
My opinion about eBooks changed thanks to my cousin, who opened my eyes to the magic of digital reading. Suddenly, I could see how an eBook could bring joy and escape to those who struggle to physically hold a book in their hands. By swiping the screen, the world of literature was now at their fingertips. For those feeling isolated or self-conscious, an eBook could be their companion. In a world of barriers, eBooks are a beacon of inclusivity, transforming the lives of those who may have previously felt left behind by traditional books.
Whichever format readers choose, the most important thing is that they continue to read and support writers, allowing us to continue creating stories that bring information, entertainment, and joy. So, whether you prefer an eBook or a print book, keep turning those pages and enjoying the endless possibilities of literature. Happy reading!
About Shelley Malicote Stutchman
Shelley Malicote Stutchman, a breast cancer survivor, has emerged as a dedicated patient advocate. Her journey as a retired nurse and former community liaison for home health and hospice has endowed her with invaluable firsthand experience in the medical field. Her passion for research is not just a mere sentiment but a commitment she demonstrated by becoming a test subject for Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine. Shelley has left an indelible mark in the healthcare field. She has owned a mental health program for low-income women, founded a support group for women over forty, and received recognition from the governor for her work with Workforce Oklahoma. Shelley's expertise is further acknowledged through her status as an award-winning speaker, author, and featured writer for CAREGIVER MAGAZINE. Shelley's love for writing and storytelling is a testament to her creative spirit. Today, she shares her stories through various platforms, including creating daily videos on TikTok and being a Facebook Digital Creator. When she's not writing or advocating, Shelley enjoys life's simple pleasures-like watching hummingbirds on her front porch with her husband Neil Johnson, aka Cameraman. Shelley's commitment to spreading awareness about breast cancer is unwavering. She offers speaking engagements to inspire others to join the fight and keep pushing for a cure. Shelley can be reached at Medicarejetsetters@gmail.com.
About PEEK-A-BOOB: Uncovering Breast Cancer
If you or someone you know has ever received a breast cancer diagnosis, you understand how overwhelming and scary it can be. In "PEEK-A-BOOB," the author offers a helping hand to those navigating the difficult journey from diagnosis to survivorship. Drawing from personal experience and thorough research, this book provides a roadmap through the maze of treatment protocols and medical jargon while also serving as a source of comfort and inspiration. With heartwarming quotes and uplifting encouragement, the author helps readers find solace when grappling with doubts and despair. "PEEK-A-BOOB" is a companion, guide, and testament to the resilience of the human spirit. This is the book the author wishes she had when she heard her doctor say, "You have breast cancer."
"In this book about surviving breast cancer, Stutchman captures the fragility of life through her expressive, beautiful writing. As she navigates through her often-poignant journey, you can feel her fears, her brief doubt of faith, and her uncertainties about her future. The love and importance of her family is ever present. I was delighted to see the chapter written by her sister. Her candidness about her intimacy with her husband spoke to a real situation many may not have considered. While it is just one person's experience, the author's presentation brings the reader a feeling of candid reality. There is truly a valuable and possibly humorous takeaway from her story. I recommend this book for any woman, at any age, who is diagnosed with breast cancer."
---Jodi Cooper, Susan G. Komen(R) Volunteer-Event Committee Chairperson
