I always have a few books in my reading pile, on my Kindle, or in my "tonight" audiobook playlist on my iPod. Right now, I have Permanent Present Tense: The Unforgettable Life of the Amnesic Patient, H. M.
I "read" books in different ways. We live in a tiny home with books shelved two deep in some case, and others in storage waiting for their turn to come live with us. New books must audition before they find a physical place in our home.
When I hear or read about a book that I want to read, I go directly to the Boston Public Library catalogue and see if they have a copy. If not and I think it has a wide interest, I'll suggest that they purchase it.
In the case of Permanent Present Tense, I had to wait a bit before it was my turn to read a library copy. Since I have met the author and she played an important role in the life of a dear friend, I had every intention of buying the book. I just had to decide how to buy it – hardcover book, Kindle edition, or audiobook.
In the end, I did all three. I'm reading the library's copy in hardcover. I added the Kindle edition to my library when I want to continue reading the book and forget to bring it with me. And, I purchased the audiobook so that Ed and I can listen to it in the car on our next road trip.
This doesn't happen often, but this is a fascinating book that I do recommend. Here is a great interview about the book from the radio show Fresh Air.
Update: July 5, 2013: Here is another great interview on WBUR's Radio Boston.
What's your favorite way to consume new books?
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Words: Penny Cherubino
Photography: Cover art courtesy of Amazon