I am the proud owner of a version 1.0 Kindle. Yes, that’s right, the boxy-looking one with the square corners, the funny angled keyboard, and the too-big page turning buttons that lead to numerous accidental page turns. While I wish I had a 2.0 or a DX, I am still very happy with my purchase (the $50 off courtesy of Oprah didn’t hurt). I forked over the $309 for a couple reasons.

• First, I have moved a lot and will move a lot in the future and my humble book collection is a PITA to move. With a Kindle my library won’t add another pound.
• Secondly, I now can buy newly released books for just $9.99 (sometimes less) and get them delivered instantly. No trip to the book store. Instant gratification.
• Thirdly, out of copyright books by classical authors like Dickens, Dumas, Shelley, etc. are totally free. My classical collection has grown exponentially since I got a Kindle.
• Lastly, the mobility is fantastic. I can take all my books on a trip. I can instantly begin rereading one of my favorites.

Enemy #1: Publishers

Let me explain the experience that led me to this conclusion.

Dan Schawbel recently released a new book titled “Me 2.0: Build a Powerful Brand to Achieve Career Success”. Since Dan Schawbel is considered the go-to guy for Generation Y personal branding I figured it would be a good read that would be applicable to me (we’re pretty close in age). So I searched for the book on Amazon (on my Kindle of course) and couldn’t find the book. I then went to the web and discovered that the book was indeed available, but not for Kindle.

“Are you kidding me?”

This is a book for Generation Y, with 2.0 in the title, and it isn’t available for Kindle? I tweeted @DanSchawbel a couple times and dropped a hint on TechCrunch about the fact figuring he was responsible. However, Dan got in touch with me and informed me that while he had wanted it to happen, his publisher wouldn’t do it.

Why Not?

Dan didn’t answer this question because I’m sure he appreciates his publisher a lot. However, I don’t think it’s too hard to figure out. It’s all about the Benjamins. Kindle books sell for $9.99, the book goes for $16.95.

I know this sounds like a rant because it pretty much is. However, let me make my point very clearly: I will not buy this book until it is available on Kindle (and if you know Dan’s publisher, pass on the message).