iRead: E-Book Classics for iPhone

There are already a variety of e-books available for your iPhone/iPod touch, but Classics seems to be taking a new approach that may get some traction. Classics is no Kindle, but the interface is pretty visual (read visually pretty), and the books were specifically formatted for the Apple products. The app includes 11 novels (some complete with illustrations), a customizable bookshelf, page turning visuals, and a bookmark. Here's a few suggestions to really get this thing off the ground:



More books, preferably downloadable. The biggest downfall of Classics is the limited library. However, we understand that more are in the works.

Oprah endorsement. A 30-second note from the talk show and book club Queen, and you're set.

Delete Books. Honestly, why would I want Kafka's Metamorphosis accessible at any given time? Spoiler alert: The book is about a man who wakes up and discovers he IS a cockroach. And while this sounds like it could provide some literary opportunity, the opposite is more true. Consider the delete option equally crucial if you intend to make A Separate Peace, Lost Horizon, or anything by Dean Koontz available.

Special Apple-editions. Let's face it, Apple fanboys love reading about Apple (Guess who's reading this blog?) Why not modify a few classics to suit their fancy? Imagine Paradise Lost with a more symbolic fruit of evil. Or how about 20,000 Laptops Under the Sea? Throw in some Microsoft bashing for a sure hit. Turn Alice's second trip to Wonderland into Through the Windows.

Harry Potter exclusive. Convince J.K. Rowling to throw you a bone with some exclusive never before seen chapter, or even a Hogwarts yearbook. Other suggested authors you might consider contacting include L.M. Montgomery, Jane Austen, or the Bronte Sisters. Ask for Charlotte.

You can see our reviews for the iPhone and just about every other smartphone. Or continue on with some other blog posts that we consider classics:

Flickr Hits a Milestone, Predicts the Future

Video Killed the MySpace Star: MTV's Plans to Make a Profit Off You

Could You Get the BlackBerry Storm for Free?

The BlackBerry Storm Party You Missed

Wal-Mart Will Sell T-Mobile G1