What is it?

Books are a common companion for travellers and commuters. But wouldn't it be better if the person didn't have to lug along thick paperbacks or hard covers? With ebooks, one can download texts (several titles) from the Internet onto a portable device, such as a handheld computer or a notebook, to read at leisure. Depending on the software you are using to read ebooks, the digital version of a paperback bestseller can take up less than 1Mb.

How does it work?

There are several sites you can download ebooks, some of which offer free titles, although this isn't likely for the latest bestsellers. To read an ebook, you'll need to download reader software, which is usually free. Some readers include Microsoft Reader (www.mslit.com) and MobiPocket (www.computer-active.co.uk/downloads/1122683).

Drawbacks

Copyrights. Check any terms and conditions on a website before you buy, download or share an ebook. Never amend the text in any way as it infringes on copyright laws.

Where to get one?

Some sites include Project Guttenburg (www.promo.net/pg/), eBook Directory (http://ebookdirectory.com/), (www.free-ebooks.net) for religious and health topics and for magazines, Zinio (www.zinio.com).