In fact, the Kindle is a new medium. I can’t say that I know how to write specifically for it and how that would be different, but some books, like those by Wodehouse in particular, seem to have a natural affinity for the thing. I expect this to trigger a reading revolution. Furthermore, I expect this revolution to be credited with all sorts of things, but not to the fact that the Kindle is a completely new medium.
The Kindle is not an iPad, not a computer, and not really a book. When you get a book, it has heft and pages and you know what you are in for as you begin to read it. It can be daunting. The Kindle is one page that is refreshed to another page. That’s it. There is no physical reminder that you have a long way to go to finish the book. It eliminates all sorts of psychological aversions from the reading process.
I would also assume there will be variable kinds of comprehension, too. It’s got to be different than print and audio books.
Take note, because I predict this formidable device will lead to a renaissance in reading and literacy.
Given my own successes with ebooks, I am inclined to agree with him.
-JM