About

What are ‘teen ebooks?’

eBook is just a term for a book-length electronic computer file with text and/or pictures. All publishers, big and small, use a program called Acrobat to create electronic galleys of their upcoming books, with edited text and layout. When they put these, or similar files, online, that’s an ebook. So a ‘teen ebook’ is just an ebook for teens.

Does anyone actually read ebooks?

Statistically, ebook sales only account for about 2% of the literary industry, but that’s still enough to support dozens of small publishers that sell exclusively electronically.

What are the advantages of reading ebooks?

eBooks are cheap (and often free), green (no paper, no trees) and massive space savers. The average computer can hold well over 300,000 ebooks, and even small handhelds can hold thousands at a time. If you read ebooks, you don’t have to worry about leaving room in your suitcase the next time you travel; you can take your entire library with you in your pocket.

What if I don’t like staring at my computer screen for a long time?

Many companies are working on handhelds with screens that are virtually undistinguishable from standard paper. The Sony Reader is the first product like this to hit the market, and it’s dropping in price every year.

What if I’m not computer savvy?

There’s a big misconception that only tech-heads read ebooks. If that were true, I would not be here writing this. You can either buy ebooks directly from publishers or from stores like Fictionwise. Either way, there is always pages to help you understand how the buying process works, and staff you can email if you run into trouble. If you ever browse the net (you’re here, aren’t you?) you can read ebooks.

What if I just hate computers?

Then you probably shouldn’t read ebooks, after all. But don’t run away, just yet! At least half of the novels covered on this site are also available in paperback.

Isn’t ebook publishing and self publishing virtually the same thing?

Urban Legend Alert! e-publishing, like POD (print on demand, google it), are technologies, not methods of publication. Ninety-nine percent of the titles featured on Teen eBooks are professionally published. Publishers provide editing, cover art, layout and distribution, and the authors receive royalties on copies sold.

Do authors publish electronically by choice or necessity?

Usually authors would prefer to receive mainstream distribution, and they know that’s not something they’ll achieve through ebooks. However, there are many advantages for authors in the ebook industry, including higher-royalties (because production costs are lower), and longer shelf-life for their books (because once they’re available, it doesn’t cost publishers very much to keep them there). There is a strong community of ebook authors, with annual international conferences and awards (most prestigiously, the EPPIEs), and some well-known authors (like Stephen King) trying to advance the industry.

If I want to support my favorite author, should I buy the ebook or the paperback?

Usually authors make more from ebooks, even if they’re cheaper! Also, ordering directly from publishers’ websites most often means larger royalties for writers, and is always the best way to support the industry.

What’s the best way to read ebooks?

That’s a matter of opinion. Check out this article for some ideas.

So what’s the story behind this website?

I started Teen eBooks in April 2006 to promote a world of reading largely ignored by big buck$ media. Teens are known to be tech-savy and computer-happy, but not very many of them know what they’re missing when it comes to e-reading. This is a place where readers, writers and even publishers can drop by to see what’s up in the teen ebook world, and find something great to read. It’s also a place for me to plug my own writing, when it finally gets published, but you don’t have to worry about that too much.

Who are you?

I am a teen, a writer, and an ebook enthusiast. I read indie ebooks whenever I have time, and update Teen eBooks whenever I don’t. Back in the good ol’ days there were a number of writers for the site, but I’m the only remainder. If you think you might be interested in writing reviews of ebooks for teens, send me a line using the address below with a writing sample or two. Writers get free reads!

I’m an author/publisher: may I send you my ebook(s) in exchange for reviews?

Absolutely! Please email pr @ teenebooks.com (sans spaces) to confirm the best way to send your products, and for an estimate on time of review. I generally read all works on a first-come, first-serve basis, although preference is given to new or upcoming ebooks from small, traditional (non-vanity) pubs. Thank you for your support and patience.

These FAQs suck. I still have questions/just want to rant.

There’s a comments box below. No spam, please. I’m vegetarian.