Electronic distribution gives a chance for content, that would normally not have had a chance in hell to be published, due to the very small target group. Now, if you can find your target group, you can even sell really well as you have an instant global distribution vs. having to fight for expensive shelf space in a brick and mortar store.

Correct. No problem with the format I just wish I could have bought other than through Amazon. But I bought it anyway and it was worth it for a super read – funny, scary, aw-some. Hats off, Mr Borowitz.

https://read.amazon.com/

Then you don’t have to have a battle with yourself about whether purchasing an ephemeral version of something or other is the same as purchasing a finely printed edition, you can battle yourself deciding if reading the content is worth $0.99.

I understand the concern about the proprietary format, I do. But until there is a universal format that addressess the needs of the publishers and consumers both, this is what we get.

I still love a physical book, but if that’s not an option, at least I know i still have some options on how I can consume the electronic formats. The fact that you’ve posted a comment means you already have a channel of consumption, without having to buy an eReader.

To use your makeup analogy, imagine having to make an initial investment of $200 in a new set of nails and then being unable to wear certain colors because they’re made by a brand that isn’t supported by the nailmaker you chose. Or imagine a glitch in your nails causing them to disappear or be rendered completely inaccessible.

“Hey, things change” isn’t a reason to abandon traditional books. As I said previously I may at some point purchase an e-reader, but I don’t think consumers should be forced to convert exclusively to e-books just because publishers are greedy and short-sighted.

And, every time I find a makeup color I really love, they stop making it.  (Also, perfume, lotion, hair care product, etc.)

Until we can afford to have our very own, personal creator-of-everything-we-want/like, we have to follow the rules of being in a society.  Which, basically, falls down to:  You might like that item, but if enough OTHER people don’t, you can’t get it. 

I didn’t think being able to purchase the book in a form that doesn’t require an external power source was too much to ask, but apparently I was mistaken.