I think we're always going to like our print books. We have since they were invented. But I've absolutely embraced reading on in iPad. Of course I spend more money on books now as they're instantly obtainable. I used to work with Lawrence Hill, and I'd read his
Book of Negroes on my iPad. When I met him, I told him how much I loved it. He offered to sign it and I said it was electronic. They I really did tell him he could sign my thigh. Anyone who's
seen that guy will understand…
I was sad not to have his autograph on the book, but I'd really rather spend whatever time I have with an author I admire chatting instead of both of us looking down while he/she writes his/her name in my book. I think missing out on signatures is a really small price to pay for the convenience of an e-reader. That said, I think books will always exist, but I welcome innovation. I have a family member who claimed that I'm famous for accepting change. I'm not sure that's always true, but I do think that we have to embrace change or be left behind. I just got my hands on a copy of a strictly e-book. It's a make-up-your-own-fantasy book by three South African women writers. It's really fun erotica, and the point is that as the reader, you make all the choices (wear the granny gonch or go command0 - stuff like that). This is really fun, and though they could do it in print form (turn to page whatever if you choose the granny pants), they decided not to:
http://itsabookthingblog.blogspot.ca/2013/07/a-girl-walks-into-bar-by-helena-s-paige.html