The Enhanced eBook

The world’s biggest book fair is underway and authors and publishers are battling to be the next big story.

Last year the eBook dominated the book fair, with the kindle and iPad replacing regular books. And now those gadgets might be shelved as buzz swells around the “enhanced eBook.” The device will combine the traditional book with audio, video and gaming features.

Author Ken Follett presented a multimedia enhanced version of his popular book “The Pillars of the Earth.” With the touch of a screen digital readers will be able to watch scenes from the TV series based on the book. They will also have access to interviews with the actors and author as well as track interactions on their character tree. And more authors are sure to follow.

QBend is a company that helps publishers take their projects digital. They are predicting a 42% annual growth of the eBook over the next two years. But don’t shelve your old favorites just yet. Many publishers say regular page turning books will make a comeback. It’s easier to curl up with a good book when you don’t have to charge the batteries.