Quote:
Originally Posted by Alexander Turcic
This isn't exactly a secret being kept under lock and key. Adult literature is selling well. So well, in fact, that various online booksellers, including Amazon, have been tweaking their search and rating algorithms to downplay the importance of that category. The Atlantic writer Noah Berlatsky makes a persuasive argument that it may, in fact, be this very erotica that has helped the Kindle to thrive:
Who would have thought. The Kindle - the ultimate camouflage gear for porn aficionados? |
It may serve that purpose, but in my reading groups the one thing that made the kindle thrive is that it's easy to buy and get the books. You don't have to learn anything new. Most of my cozy group is over 50. Most of them don't want to fiddle with technology and will buy a book from Amazon rather than download a book from elsewhere--even if it is free elsewhere.
It's the one click and delivery without having to USB or learn anything that has convinced many a buyer and kept them coming back for more. Some of them may even read porn, but from the conversations we've had, it was the simplicity of the technology they were sold on. A number of them no longer drive or drive a lot less than they used to. They love the instant delivery. They don't have to drive across town, make an extra stop, etc. If they want a book, they can get it. They do complain about pricing at times, but not lack of selection.
I'm sure some people like the ability to hide what they read (for whatever reason), but if that was the ONLY reason Kindle was popular, everyone could have bought a Sony a long time ago.