Posted by Duncan on November 25, 2003 at 19:19:39 from 195.93.32.7 user Duncan.
In Reply to: Re: Swallows & Amazons Bird Book (Was MAP of Secret Water) posted by Paul Flint on November 24, 2003 at 21:24:45:
Mm, I have considered the ebook idea. I'm not sure it's the best medium for the birdbook, as it currently stands, because the lovely watercolour sketches that my mother has done for the book just look great on the page, and while they could be scanned in to look almost as good on the screen, if people wanted to print it out to read off the screen or whatever, they're obviously going to lose something in quality. But I do rather like the e-book idea in principle.
The annoying thing with the birdbook is I've far less trouble with the distribution side of things than the publishing: the RSPB, the Lake District and Norfolk Broads Authorities, etc. have all expressed interest in selling it in their shops, etc. There has been plenty of interest from those TARS (or indeed Ransome executors) I've discussed the issue with; just a little less enthusiasm from publishers... (there've been a few 'might-have-beens')
I suppose self-publishing would be the other possibility, but I must say I'm reluctant to go down that route.
BUT I THINK INTERACTIVE MAPS WOULD BE FAB! You click on the hills from the big map of the lake and (to quiet strains of 'Hanging Johnny' a map of High Topps emerges... Take a virtual tour of Slater Bob's mine (link to a load of educational info on slate and copper mining...) It would be fantastic. I'd probably just give up work, and let the bailiffs take everything but the computer!)