What is it?
A digital e-book reader with audible playback features.
Streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and Disney+ are a great way to while away some idle hours during a global pandemic, but sometimes, rather than a telly binge, you crave losing yourself in a good book.
After all, how many of us kid ourselves that the reason we haven't read all the classics is down to being too busy? Those excuses don't wash as easily as they once did.
Many parents are firing up the old grey matter while home-schooling their offspring (the most my father taught me was the names of the women on Tennent's Lager cans) which, in turn, has reawakened a thirst for learning.
The main selling point of an e-book reader like the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite is the immediacy it offers – you can download an entire new library within seconds.
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Good points?
Audio integration provides an interesting dynamic as sometimes my inner voice isn't quite as captivating as the dulcet tones of Stephen Fry and that dramatic narration can help stoke the imagination.
The lightweight device is sleek, well balanced and waterproof which will be handy once we can all get back to being poolside again.
Amazon's library is extensive and easy to navigate. Nor do you need to worry about the pages of an e-book getting tattered or dog-eared.
Bad points?
The flimsy plastic feel may be off-putting to some. I wish someone would design an e-reader that resembles a substantial, hollowed out book.
Best for ...
Those who like the option of audio as they read.
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Avoid if ...
You already have a teetering stack of tomes on the bedside table. I'm looking at you, Mrs Dimmock.
Score: 8/10.
Amazon Kindle Paperwhite, from £119.99 (amazon.co.uk)
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