2 questions about reference books

Janet L wrote:

> #1) We recently started offering our 284-page paperback and 298- 
> page eBook direct to consumers but, since there's a LOT of  
> formatting, bullets, etc, we only offer our ebook in PDF. Is PDF- 
> only a real pain for ebook readers and, if so, do you have a  
> preferred format?

I just received my Kindle, and would find that a very useful format  
in an emergency. They don't take pdf, and formatting is very  minimal  
(you have no control over what font is used, for example), but it  
does use most basic html commands (like bulleted lists), and it does  
access the web as long as there's cell service.
>
> Also ~ some officials have scolded us saying we have TOO much  
> information in our book. Well, yeah - we do have a lot of data in  
> it ... but it's a reference tool that could save a life.

Solid organization, including good outlining and links within the  
document, should make it possible to drill down to the section you  
need quickly. Then again, you have to put yourself in the position  
of  an exhausted, shocked and probably panicked person. Make things  
VERY clear, and VERY organized. Clear thinking should not be required.

(Some of the stupid things I've seen people do in emergencies of  
short duration, let alone long, defy belief. Clear thinking saves  
lives, but it's not easy to come by.)

> #2) Do you find large reference manuals too cumbersome to use as an  
> ebook? (We have hundreds of web links in it so feel ebook is a  
> compliment to our paperback, but it may not be too practical during  
> a time of crisis [i.e. no power]!)

Personally, I'd rather have something I could take along easily. So,  
IF I had power to charge my Kindle, or know where I can get to power  
within a few days, that's what I'll be using.

To put my answer in context: I'm the kind of person who has a few  
cans, a few gallons of bottled water, a little wood for the  
fireplace, and some easily portable basic stuff on hand at all times.  
I've been through a few earthquakes and 9/11, an occasional named  
storm, and had to be taken off a boat by the Coast Guard with our  
baby. I'm exactly the kind of person who would buy that book to have  
"just in case," 'cause I KNOW stuff can happen.

FWIW

Marion Gropen
Gropen Associates, Inc.
By-The-Question Consulting, Inexpensive Tools for Small Presses, and  
Classes.
For info, visit http://www.GropenAssoc.com or call (888) 3GROPEN
NEW: Marion's BLOG has moved to her site. Come ask her your questions!



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