New eBook on Board

Kindle eBook readers have been part of our travel gear for the past several years. Kindles permit us to  bring along a broad selection of books with us as we travel - without the heft of the paper books. These could include books for personal reading enjoyment as well as travel books for periodic consulting on the road. In addition, through connecting the Kindle to my computer, I'm able to download PDF-based instructions for electronic devices, such as digital cameras, and other work/travel related documents to the Kindle for easy reference during my travels.

Recently, I updated my Kindle keyboard model to the latest Paperwhite version.

Kindle Paperwhite, 6" High Resolution Display with Built-in Light, Wi-Fi - Includes Special Offers

I've been pleased with this Kindle update. Positives include:

• Greater clarity of text due to higher screen resolution.
• Even screen illumination from the internal light mechanism.
• Integration of a reading light within the screen and avoiding the need for a light that is part of a reader case or an external light device.
• Smaller physical size as the touch screen avoids the need for a keyboard.

Converting from the keyboard model was generally intuitive. The touch screen and menu system at the top of the Paperwhite model is fairly easy to use. Turning pages by simply touching a screen area is convenient.

The primary decision was whether to select the Paperwhite model with or without the display ads and sponsored screen savers. While I opted for the model without the "special offers," I understand that the ads could be of interest to many readers and are not too disruptive to using the Kindle.