There is a new app available in the iTunes App Store, called Stanza. This is a completely free app, which allows you to browse it's online database of public domain books, download, and read them, all in one app. The books themselves are free too, so you have hundreds of titles to read through one application, all without paying a penny. The description of the app also mentions the use of a desktop app (which is in Beta at the moment). However, it is not needed if you just want to read your books on your iPhone/Touch. I have tried the desktop app (available to download here), and it is quite good. There is an option to export files to the iPhone/Touch, but it basically converts it for you to read the story via Safari on your device, rather than the Stanza app. Still, you could always have a copy on your computer and a copy downloaded directly onto your iPhone/Touch using the Stanza app. Personally I'm quite happy having a sole copy on my iPod Touch.

With regards to the previously mentioned apps by AppEngines, I would still recommend these to people who want their books individually listed on their device home page.
Note: For anyone interested in reading free public domain books on their computer (of course you could always make a donation), the best resource I have found is Project Gutenberg.

Tags: AppEngines, eBooks, Stanza

Reader Barry Ward dropped me an email today to point out that there is a growing number of eBooks by AppEngines appearing on the App Store priced at 59p. One of Barry's favourite eBooks is "The War of the Worlds", and here you can see it on Barry's iPod touch.



Checking out the number of eBooks currently listed on the App Store it is clear to see that Apple need to create a dedicated section for all eBooks, and this is reflected by the following statement on the AppEngines website.

"We share your concerns that our ebook applications are taking up too much space in the App Store. We have written to Apple, requesting a that the books can be moved to their own category. We will not submit any more books until the situation is resolved. Thank you."

Barry agrees with this statement, but like many others is disappointed. "I do agree ebooks should have their own category, but I am disappointed they aren't submitting any more until then."

UPDATE: Barry emailed me to point out that these eBooks do not require a separate reader, as they are all self contained.

Tags: eBooks