a peek inside the fishbowl

06 Feb, 2013

Giveaway alert: a small gift of reading… from Kobo

Posted by andrea tomkins in: Giveaways and product reviews

We have a winner! Thanks for your entries everyone!

We are a bookish family here at Casa Fishbowl… and we like our gadgets too. So when I was offered the chance to test drive the new Kobo Mini eReader I had to take it.

I’ve had several generations of Kobos in my hands over the past few years. I wasn’t overly pleased with the first one, I found it bulky and clicky, but they got better and better as time went on. Mark has a black Kobo Touch and really likes it and uses it almost exclusively for library reads.

The one I’m writing about today, the Kobo Mini, is really sweet and I’m quite taken with it. There’s something that’s especially alluring about its compact size. BEHOLD:

kobo1

kobo2

It is quite irresistible, even though Piper doesn’t know what to make of it. As soon as my eldest daughter spotted it she picked it up and started reading. It is a READING MAGNET. The Parent Tested Parent Approved™ (PTPA) community gave the new Kobo Mini a seal of approval for ease-of-use for even the youngest of family members. I can totally see the girls getting a lot of use out of the Kobo Mini.

Personally, I didn’t know if I’d like the smaller screen, but once I got comfortable with it I realized it has some serious advantages.

(1) In a strange way, having fewer words on a page makes it easier for me to focus my attention on them. I’m a bit of an ADD reader so anything that keeps me on the page is a good thing in my books.

(2) It’s very light, and the smaller size makes it miles easier for me to hold in one hand. It’s very easy to read in bed, especially if you’re like me and tend to read on your side. It’d be the perfect size to slip into a purse or pocket too, which makes it ideal for travellers… or anyone who likes to read on the go. This one is quite pleasant to hold in your hand, which I appreciate because the first generation Kobo wasn’t.

Some nitty gritty via the Kobo people:

  • The 5” Kobo Mini is the smallest, lightest full-featured eReader in the world
  • With Kobo Mini’s glare-free E Ink touchscreen, it’s just like reading print on paper—even in direct sunlight [Agreed. It is very easy on the eyeballs.]
  • The Kobo Mini is fully customizable and allows you to choose from 7 font styles and 24 font sizes, as well as exclusive weight and sharpness settings so you can adjust the text to suit your eyes
  • The Kobo Mini is sleek and stylish with the option of 3 interchangeable SnapBacks in a range of colours to suit anyone’s reading style
  • Readers have direct access to the Kobo eBookstore from the Kobo Mini with a Wi Fi connection—and a storage capacity for up to 1,000 eBooks

Me: I love the built in dictionary! I use it all the time. In fact, this is what I miss most when I’m reading paper books! I’m also looking forward to trying the Facebook integration. :)

Here’s something that’s good to know: the Kobo Mini eReader will be available for only $59.99 from January 25 to February 14, and as an added Valentine’s Day bonus, consumers can customize the Kobo Mini with a complimentary, colourful Kobo SnapBack.

But this is a giveaway, and I have one to give to one lucky reader! If you are interested in having a Kobo Mini eReader of your very own, please read on.

  • This giveaway is for ONE (1) Kobo Mini eReader, and is open to anyone residing in Canada but is void in Quebec. (Here’s why.)
  • In order for your entry to qualify you must answer the following question in the comments below: If you win this giveaway, what’s the first thing you will read on your Kobo Mini? You can leave a link to a book you’ve been coveting, tell me about a new title, whatever!
  • One entry per family please. We want lots of people to have the opportunity to win.
  • If you can’t post your comment here for whatever reason, you can email it to me for posting. Send it to andrea at quietfish dot com … however I cannot be responsible if your entry is misdirected or gets stuck in my Spam folder.
  • Good karma goes to those who tweet or post about this on Facebook. Do you know someone who would appreciate the chance to win one of these? I bet you do. Forward this info to them! They will love you, especially if they won. Personally, I’m thinking this could be a great present for Valentine’s Day. Forget roses… give the gift of reading! You can even give it to someone preloaded with something romantic for Valentine’s Day (!).

I will do a random draw of all qualifying entries using Random.org at noon EST on February 13, 2013.

Sound good? Over to you. Good luck!


132 Responses to "Giveaway alert: a small gift of reading… from Kobo"

1 | Lee-Ann Sleegers

February 6th, 2013 at 10:25 am

Avatar

The first book I would ready on my new KOBO mini is Hacker Mom. I’ve read about it, one an ebook of it & can’t seem to find time to actually read it.

2 | Heather T

February 6th, 2013 at 10:28 am

Avatar

I’m a big fan of the amazing (and Ottawa resident to boot!) Elizabeth Hay. I’ve been wanting to read “Small Change” and as such, this would be my first selection for the Kobo Mini. Thank for the chance!

3 | Michaela Schreiter

February 6th, 2013 at 10:32 am

Avatar

The first book I would read on my new KOBO mini is UnMarketing by Scott Stratten. As a social marketing specialist, and social media addict, this book offers so much for me on both professional and personal levels. I have heard great things about it.

http://www.kobobooks.com/ebook/UnMarketing-Stop-Marketing-Start-Engaging/book-UM4ir73zu0-GYh8wbOA70w/page1.html?s=okGtsoOUCkugo8u9Q_n-IA&r=1

4 | April Duffy

February 6th, 2013 at 10:34 am

Avatar

If I win this giveaway, the first thing I will read on my Kobo Mini would be the Sookie Stackhouse series, which I purchased through Kobo two years ago but haven’t sat down to read yet… I am a bit of an ADD reader as well.

5 | Joy

February 6th, 2013 at 10:35 am

Avatar

Tough question! I think Casual Vacancy by JK Rowling-i have been saying i want to read that book since it came out!

6 | suze

February 6th, 2013 at 10:37 am

Avatar

If I won, the first thing I would read would be Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. My daughter is reading it to me, and I find the e-book version easier for her to deal with… fewer words on the page and I can make the font bigger for her!

7 | Lynda MacDonald

February 6th, 2013 at 10:38 am

Avatar

The first book I would read on my new Kobo mini would be “Ever After” by Kim Harrison. It is the latest of the Rachel Morgan – Hollows series. Just love this series.

8 | Lara

February 6th, 2013 at 10:38 am

Avatar

I regularly have up to ten books out from the library at a time – I love having lots of options because I read voraciously and I’m kind of tired of holding up the weight of the iPad ;)

9 | Maranda

February 6th, 2013 at 10:44 am

Avatar

Kobos are awesome! I got a Vox for Christmas and I love it. This would go to my 10 year old, who I can’t keep in books for the life of me. I’d start with loading the free Star Wars novels in the Kobo store.

10 | Caroline Ives

February 6th, 2013 at 10:45 am

Avatar

Even thought it’s a gazillion years old – I would like to re-read Outlander by Diana Gabaldon because I’m going to Scotland in May and want to get immersed in the feel of the country and it’s history and I would LOVE to take the Kobo Mini eReader with me.

11 | Tara

February 6th, 2013 at 10:47 am

Avatar

We bought one for my mom and she loves it. Assuming I could keep it (and my daughter didn’t try to take it from me) I would read the newest Michael Connelly book (The Black Box)

12 | Elizabeth

February 6th, 2013 at 10:48 am

Avatar

The first book I would read on my new Kobo mini would be Come, Thou Tortoise by Jessica Grant. I’ve been meaning to read it for such a long time!

13 | Cleo

February 6th, 2013 at 10:49 am

Avatar

I would re-read the Life of Pi, out loud, to my kids in before the movie is out on video!

14 | Barbara

February 6th, 2013 at 10:50 am

Avatar

I need to read a Marathon training manual.

15 | Mel

February 6th, 2013 at 10:57 am

Avatar

I have a Kobo and love it so I would give this one to my daughter. She’s currently reading the Harry Potter series. She would love the dictionary feature!

16 | Mel Gallant

February 6th, 2013 at 11:10 am

Avatar

Oooh, the first book I would read is The Painted Girls by Cathy Marie Buchanan. I’d also pick up a children’s lit book for my daughter – maybe Olivia and the Dog Wash. :)

17 | andrea

February 6th, 2013 at 11:13 am

Avatar

This entry is being posted on behalf of Tuesday De Jong:

“I’m a librarian and I have resisted e readers until I saw this mini one! The first book I would read would be ‘A Dance with Dragons’. It’s the 5th book in the Song of Fire and Ice series that inspired the TV show ‘Game of Thrones’.”

18 | Brenda A.

February 6th, 2013 at 11:27 am

Avatar

That reader is just so cute! Love that it is mini. I just started book 4 of Game of Thrones and I think I am getting carpal tunnel from holding those 1000 page monsters. The Kobo mini would relieve me!

19 | Valerie

February 6th, 2013 at 11:29 am

Avatar

will the Kobo accept books from the library? If so, the first book I’d read would be Iron Legends which is an adjunct to a series I’m reading. The library only has this one in e-book format, for some reason and I’ve been thinking of just downloading to my pc but it’s a little hard to carry around, LOL.

20 | Torontomom

February 6th, 2013 at 11:39 am

Avatar

If I were to win the Kobo I would get The Power of Why by Amanda Lang. I need to reignite my curousity about the world!

21 | andrea

February 6th, 2013 at 11:40 am

Avatar

Valerie – to answer your question, YES, the Kobo can be definitely be loaded with library books. I haven’t tried it on the Mini, but it’s probably the same routine as Mark’s Touch. If I recall correctly you need to sync your unit with a desktop Kobo program. There’s another program involved too… Adobe Digital Edition. It sounds complicated but it can be managed. :)

22 | coffeewithjulie

February 6th, 2013 at 11:44 am

Avatar

I want! I don’t have an e-reader yet … but how fantastic is that size, especially for travelling? Awesome! The first thing I would read would be The Perks of being a Wallflower.

23 | Stephane Desrosiers

February 6th, 2013 at 11:59 am

Avatar

I’d probably get back into the Dresden Files. (The Kobo store has two anthology collections for the first 12 books.)

24 | Heather Ann

February 6th, 2013 at 12:01 pm

Avatar

I still haven’t read Steve Jobs’ biography and am dying to, so I would make that the first book read on the mini. (Perhaps it will even be on sale!)

25 | Bob LeDrew

February 6th, 2013 at 12:06 pm

Avatar

I might test my self-restraint and wait until Stephen King releases “Joyland” in June 2013.

26 | Mommy Marshall

February 6th, 2013 at 12:14 pm

Avatar

I’m about a hundred pages from finishing A Game of Thrones, so I would read A Clash if Kings if I won this Kobo.

Thanks Andrea!

27 | Caroline

February 6th, 2013 at 12:18 pm

Avatar

I’d stilll like to read: Steve Jobs
By Walter Isaacson

Love the idea of having all books in one place to read and re-read at leisure. :-)

28 | Allison

February 6th, 2013 at 12:33 pm

Avatar

Would love a mini Kobo! I have used my mom’s Kobo and it is great and I do read e-books on my Blackberry Playbook as well. But this mini looks much smaller and lighter. My son would also love it and the first book I’d get would be for him. He’s currently into the “Warriors” series by Erin Hunter and I love them as well. I know he’s wanting to read “Yellowfang’s Secret”.

Thanks!

29 | andrea

February 6th, 2013 at 12:47 pm

Avatar

This entry is for Christa R, who writes: “This would go my 10 year old. It’s hard to keep enough books for her on hand. But the next book on my reading list is Gone Girl. “

30 | Carolyn

February 6th, 2013 at 1:23 pm

Avatar

I just gave one as a Christmas gift to my sister and brother-in-law but haven’t had the pleasure of using one yet myself. I just had the “Twelve Tribes of Hattie” out from the library but couldn’t finish it before the Express book had to go back and now the wait list is FOREVER! So I’d finish reading it as my first download but I have so many more I’d love to read too.

31 | Chantal

February 6th, 2013 at 1:28 pm

Avatar

I have a kobo touch which I love and just last night had to wrestle away from my 11yo. So I would give the KOBO mini to him and load up all the Lord of the Rings books on it for him to read :)

32 | Cath in Ottawa

February 6th, 2013 at 1:34 pm

Avatar

I would give this to my mum (who is now having trouble keeping up her voracious reading due to macular degeneration), loaded with Bringing up the Bodies by Hilary Mantel – I got her the audiobook of Wolf Hall from the library recently and it was a huge hit!

33 | Judy

February 6th, 2013 at 2:13 pm

Avatar

I would read the Ian Hamilton books after reading the Red Pole of Macau over the holidays I know want to read his others.

34 | Hellcat13

February 6th, 2013 at 2:19 pm

Avatar

I’ve never actually used an eReader; I’ve read on my phone, but the screen of the Kobo intrigues me. The first book I’d read would be Deadline by Stephen Maher. He’s a columnist for the Citizen and he recently released this e-book, which is set in Ottawa. I’d love to read it on a new Kobo Mini!

35 | Laura

February 6th, 2013 at 2:34 pm

Avatar

I would give the mini kobo to my niece. I am planning on getting her one for her birthday in April. I would put some Bad Kitty by Nick Bruel on it for her – fun books for young readers. As for me I would read The Night Circus!

36 | Lisa Silfwerbrand

February 6th, 2013 at 2:39 pm

Avatar

I would love to have this and the first thing I would read would be The Painted Girls by Cathy Buchanan. I’m ready for a little indulgent winter reading :)

37 | Tricia

February 6th, 2013 at 3:04 pm

Avatar

I would reread The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson. That sucker is over 1000 pages long and having it in an e-book would be awesome!

38 | Jessica

February 6th, 2013 at 3:16 pm

Avatar

Hunger Games!
I had just started the first book in the series when my last Kobo died :-(

39 | karen

February 6th, 2013 at 4:06 pm

Avatar

The Hobit. I have been reading it with my son but I think he would like it more if there were fewer words on the page.

40 | Kaitlin

February 6th, 2013 at 4:12 pm

Avatar

I would take it to task with Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace. I’ve been dying to dig into this book, but at over 1000 pages long, it seems to be what an e-reader was built for! (I’m more excited about being able to fit it into my purse on the subway, frankly!)

41 | lacoop

February 6th, 2013 at 4:23 pm

Avatar

Silent Spring (Rachael Carson…over 50 years since it was published…time for me to read it!).

42 | Val

February 6th, 2013 at 4:23 pm

Avatar

Capitol by John Lanchester, supposed
to be AMAZING.

43 | jessrawk

February 6th, 2013 at 4:29 pm

Avatar

I would love to dive into The Madwoman in the Attic’s updated version on a new Kobo Mini.

44 | Jayda

February 6th, 2013 at 4:51 pm

Avatar

I just saw the Kobo mini the other day!!

I have yet to own an eReader.

In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts, would be my first read;)

45 | Christette

February 6th, 2013 at 4:51 pm

Avatar

The first thing I would do if I won the Mini Kobo would be to read the book The Color Purple. I watched the movie on the weekend and it was amazing. Sometimes the movie and the book are not the same, so I would like to read the book to note the differences.

I love reading!

Christette

46 | Lynn

February 6th, 2013 at 5:23 pm

Avatar

OMG, best giveaway EVAH. I COVET.

My first title will be…oh, the choices! I think I will go with This Is How You Lose Her by Junot Diaz, something else I have been coveting for a while.

47 | Joann

February 6th, 2013 at 5:52 pm

Avatar

The first book I would read is The end of the life book club,
Thanks for the chance to win one!

48 | Jodi

February 6th, 2013 at 6:03 pm

Avatar

I would read Life by Keith Richards. It’s too big to lug around – perfect for a Kobo mini!

49 | Emilie

February 6th, 2013 at 6:09 pm

Avatar

The first book I would read would be Thirst No. 5: The Sacred Veil by Christopher Pike, it be great to not have to run to the store to get it on the day of publication! :)

50 | Maria @BOREDMommy

February 6th, 2013 at 6:32 pm

Avatar

I would give it to my son so he would read his latest 39 clues book!

51 | Jessica @ Just a Mum?

February 6th, 2013 at 6:43 pm

Avatar

I’m pretty sure I’d read Anne of Green Gables first. There’s been a lot of talk about her lately, with that new horrific come-hither-blonde cover, and now I’m itching for a re-read. The Kobo mini would be super handy for reading it to my daughter for her next bedtime book. :)

52 | Kelsey

February 6th, 2013 at 7:01 pm

Avatar

I’ve been meaning to read “The Case for God” by Karen Armstrong. Would love to read it on a Kobo mini! :)

53 | elsewise

February 6th, 2013 at 7:11 pm

Avatar

If I won the Kobo mini, I’d read Anne of Green Gables. I’ve been reading a lot of non-fiction lately, and I’m starting to miss getting caught up in another place and time. And I miss Gilbert, the Pacey of books.

54 | Kim

February 6th, 2013 at 7:14 pm

Avatar

Yikes! That’s a hard question; my to be read list is miles long! I think the first book I would read on the adorable Kobo Mini would be Ken Follett’s “Fall of Giants.” It would certainly save my wrists a lot of pain!

55 | Jason

February 6th, 2013 at 7:25 pm

Avatar

I’m a fan of James Patterson so probably his latest!

56 | Shannon

February 6th, 2013 at 7:30 pm

Avatar

So cute! My 9- year old is a crazy avid reader and would love a kobo! We would have to load all the Kenneth Opal books on there right away. The next book of his that my daughter is set to read is “Half Brother”.

57 | andrea

February 6th, 2013 at 7:32 pm

Avatar

Angela F writes: “The first book I would read on my Kobo mini is “A feast for crows”, the 4th book in the Song of Ice and Fire series (Game of Thrones). Those books are so heavy to hold, so it would be nice to have something a little lighter :)

http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/books/Feast-For-Crows/9780553582024-item.html?s_campaign=goo-BooksByTitle&gclid=CNzglcjUorUCFShgMgodOkMASQ

58 | Josh S

February 6th, 2013 at 7:38 pm

Avatar

First thing I will read is “The Art of War”

59 | zahra p

February 6th, 2013 at 7:39 pm

Avatar

The first book I would read on the kobo mini is The girl who kicked the hornets nest. I have read the first two books in this trilogy and will read the third when I finish my degree in April. Thanks!

60 | Katie

February 6th, 2013 at 8:05 pm

Avatar

The God of Small Things is next on my booklist. Recently enjoyed I Know This Much Is True and am curious about twins and siblings as I watch my family grow.

61 | SUMMER PLEWES

February 6th, 2013 at 8:10 pm

Avatar

Odd thomas by dean koontz!! for sure!!

62 | Chris

February 6th, 2013 at 8:20 pm

Avatar

Easy one for me. Neil Young’s “Waging Heavy Peace”

63 | Fiona

February 6th, 2013 at 8:21 pm

Avatar

Having never used an e-reader, I would choose one of the America’s Test Kitchen cookbooks to try it out, because I’d be interested to see whether it is easy to use in that format. Its a cookbook I refer all the time and is too big to carry when I travel.

64 | solange

February 6th, 2013 at 8:34 pm

Avatar

The first book I would read on my new Kobo Mini is “A Brutal Telling” by Louise Penny. It’s the next in a set of mysteries set in the Eastern Township. Easy reads but witty and fun, and I love the little references to life in Quebec and Montreal that flesh out the stories.
It would be extra cool if I could read it in a spiffy new e-reader!

65 | Christina

February 6th, 2013 at 8:35 pm

Avatar

The first book I would read on this Kobo delight would be The Fault in Out Stars. I’ve read a lot of great reviews about it and want to see if it lives up to the hype.

66 | Marla

February 6th, 2013 at 9:51 pm

Avatar

Beautiful creatures or s e c r e t. I can’t wait

67 | Joy

February 6th, 2013 at 9:52 pm

Avatar

I would like to read Quiet by Susan Cain. Personality types have always intrigued me. Curious to try out an e-reader.

68 | Heidi O.

February 6th, 2013 at 9:53 pm

Avatar

Great giveaway! If I win I’ll be getting The Rules of Inheritance by Claire Bidwell Smith!

69 | Sarah Robinson (@MrsArob)

February 6th, 2013 at 10:03 pm

Avatar

What would I read first? “Promised to Keep” by Jane Green.

70 | Crystal

February 6th, 2013 at 11:33 pm

Avatar

Hmm, maybe 419 by Will Ferguson, a cautionary tale about Nigerian internet scams

71 | Nora

February 6th, 2013 at 11:34 pm

Avatar

I’d love to try an e-reader. Have read on my ipad but don’t always get it to myself so timing is a challenge. The first book I would load up is The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry. Thanks for the opportunity!

72 | Nora B. in Kanata

February 6th, 2013 at 11:40 pm

Avatar

If I won this Kobo e-reader, I would give it to my friend Cathy but I would first load up a book or two by David Sedaris on it. Cathy is having a knee replaced next month & will need some cheering up while stuck in the house for weeks recovering.

74 | Lisa

February 7th, 2013 at 9:03 am

Avatar

first book i would read on my new kobo is casual vacancy by jk rowling or life of pi …

tweet as @neutkidz

75 | Paula Schuck

February 7th, 2013 at 9:24 am

Avatar

I would give this to my youngest daughter. She is eight and loves to read but also needs some encouragement to do so at times. She would probably want to see if the Harry Potter books were available for download. She would also look for any Todd Parr or Mark Brown – she loves Arthur books and also National Geographic!

76 | Cari

February 7th, 2013 at 9:42 am

Avatar

The first book I would read is Gone Girl, because all my friends are talking about it! :-)

77 | Jenny

February 7th, 2013 at 10:30 am

Avatar

I’ve been looking forward to reading The Help. Saw the movie and loved it and heard the book is even better!

78 | Cathy Cathy

February 7th, 2013 at 12:01 pm

Avatar

Let’s Pretend This Never Happened: (A Mostly True Memoir) BY Jenny Lawson or Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain. I have been dying to read both!
Great Giveaway Thanks

79 | Vivian

February 7th, 2013 at 12:17 pm

Avatar

I’d be loading up Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire since I’m currently reading that aloud to my son, and it’s a heavy book!

80 | Sara Horton

February 7th, 2013 at 12:19 pm

Avatar

I would read The Innocents Abroad by Mark Twain. It’s on my reading list for our upcoming March Break cruise.

81 | KL

February 7th, 2013 at 12:21 pm

Avatar

We are going on a road trip for the Family Day weekend. I love the idea of not packing a bunch of books for bedtime reading! The first book I would put on there would be Hop on Pop for my 6 yr old to read to me. We would then I’m sure load it up with any fairy chapter books she could find.

82 | Elaine Jasvins

February 7th, 2013 at 12:26 pm

Avatar

I would love to read “Quiet”, a friend told me it was a good read.

83 | Jennifer

February 7th, 2013 at 1:30 pm

Avatar

I would read the new Tracy Chevalier novel ‘The Last Runaway”

84 | Francine

February 7th, 2013 at 1:54 pm

Avatar

I’d want to read S.E.C.R.E.T. by L. Marie Adeline – it’s getting so much buzz!

85 | Michelle

February 7th, 2013 at 2:06 pm

Avatar

First book I would read… would be to the Harry Potter series with my son!

86 | Trish

February 7th, 2013 at 2:09 pm

Avatar

The kobo mini looks so realistically-sized, perfect for purse, bag, propping up in the kitchen etc. I would try to entice my reluctant-to-read-books 12 yr old to read with it, since he seems addicted to electronic screens of all kinds. I’d see if I could move him past graphic novels to a classic like The Hobbit.

87 | Stephanie

February 7th, 2013 at 3:15 pm

Avatar

This looks like the perfect-sized e-reader! I would love to win one!

The first book that I would want to read is The Game of Thrones. I love the TV series and am looking forward to starting the book series as well!

88 | Annika Ek

February 7th, 2013 at 4:15 pm

Avatar

Would love this litte Kobo! Perfect size since as it will easily fit into my purse. The first is book I’ll be reading on the Kobo Mini will be “The Solitude of Prime Numbers” by Paolo Giordano.

Also, look forward to getting my hands on Swedish books more easily with the Kobo.

Link to the book:
http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/books/The-Solitude-Of-Prime-Numbers-Paolo-Giordano/9780143177456-item.html?ikwid=solitudes+of+prime+numbers&ikwsec=Home

89 | Rebecca

February 7th, 2013 at 4:39 pm

Avatar

I would get the Democratic Parenting e-book! I have had the hard copy sitting around the house for weeks but never seem to get a chance to read it. I could read on an e-reader in the dark while the baby naps!

90 | Jennifer St Denis

February 7th, 2013 at 4:50 pm

Avatar

I think I would read ‘Life Code’ by Dr Phil or the 50 Shades of Grey series for my husband!

91 | Heather

February 7th, 2013 at 9:47 pm

Avatar

If I won this kobo mini I would think about giving it toy daughter who is learning to read. Maybe a new tool
And inspiration for her to keep up the hard work it takes to learn how to read. I would download any good young readers.

Thanks for the chance !

92 | Tara

February 7th, 2013 at 9:58 pm

Avatar

First book I would read is Painted Girls!

93 | Wendy

February 7th, 2013 at 10:26 pm

Avatar

Oooooooh…have never used an e reader.

I have a torn meniscus and am having trouble staying off my feet:(as I am stubborn
This would certainly help pass time :-)
I have been wanting to read SO many books…50 shades of grey, Blessed are the cheesemakers, The wisdom of menopause( need I say more?)
Than you, Andrea.
And good luck to Cathy with the upcoming knee replacement:-)

94 | K

February 7th, 2013 at 10:59 pm

Avatar

What an awesome giveaway! My problem is that I don’t know what I’d read first. I get recommendations from people, request books from the library, and read whatever comes first!

95 | Shakira

February 8th, 2013 at 9:00 am

Avatar

A few of my friends have suggested that I get my son an e-reader. He’s almost 9, and a very avid reader. We can’t keep up with his reading and there are constantly books all over our house. He always has books on reserve at the public library and family members keep giving him more and more books. My mom is a retired elementary school teacher so the books are never ending!!
I would LOVE to win the Kobo reader for my son, and I would load the last 3 Cressida Cowell (How to Train your Dragon) books, for starters:)

96 | John

February 8th, 2013 at 9:19 am

Avatar

I would read Harry Potter to my kids.

97 | barb

February 8th, 2013 at 10:54 am

Avatar

I think I would try and wait for the new Jodi Picoult book to come out!! What a great giveaway!!

98 | Jennifer

February 8th, 2013 at 12:08 pm

Avatar

Hmm the first book I would read…probably some fluffy dot have to think about the content type of book! Along the lines of Nicholas Sparks or Sophie Kinsella!!

99 | Tenesia

February 8th, 2013 at 4:19 pm

Avatar

If i read this giveaway the first book i will read on the Mini is “The Red Book” by Sera Beak. Its a book about finding yourself, from spirituality to sexuality. Check it out at:
http://serabeak.com/books/

100 | Andrew P

February 8th, 2013 at 11:25 pm

Avatar

If I were to win, the first book I would load up and read would be Ender’s Game

101 | Tracy @TracyRedefined

February 9th, 2013 at 9:17 am

Avatar

The first book I will read is Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn. I keep hearing it’s so good and it’s on my list!

102 | Sherrilynne Starkie

February 10th, 2013 at 9:16 am

Avatar

The first book I will read is Bossy Pants by Tina Fey. She is the funniest woman on TV and a true feminist.

103 | Michelle

February 10th, 2013 at 9:16 am

Avatar

I will read the 50 Shades of Grey trilogy – because on a Kobo, people on the subway won’t be able to tell what I’m indulging in ;)

104 | Brit

February 10th, 2013 at 10:13 am

Avatar

The first book I would read on the Kobo mini would be Boneheads and Bastards by Will Ferguson- it’s been on my list for a while now!

105 | tina p

February 10th, 2013 at 3:58 pm

Avatar

I would get Great Gluten-Free Vegan Eats. it was my new years resolution to eat gluten free. I’m needing some help!

106 | Tracy

February 10th, 2013 at 5:32 pm

Avatar

Can’t believe I’m admitting this in a public forum but I may be the last person in Canada to have not read 50 Shades of Grey and one reason is I’d want to cover the book sleeve lest anyone catch me reading it! LOL The first book I’d read on the kobo mini would be the 1st of the SOG trilogy. Likely followed by the 2nd and 3rd books

107 | Margaret

February 11th, 2013 at 7:28 am

Avatar

I think I’d break it in with an old favourite like Wuthering Heights – see how new technology gets along with classics. ;)

108 | binki

February 11th, 2013 at 11:21 am

Avatar

I like it !
It’ll be for my daughter so the first thing she’ll read is yet another Percy Jackson book (if they’re available as e-books).

109 | karen

February 11th, 2013 at 7:00 pm

Avatar

I keep saying I am going to read Harry Potter since it looks fun, even for adults! Maybe this will get me started!

110 | Tracey

February 12th, 2013 at 5:30 am

Avatar

I’m waiting for a price drop on 419 by Will Ferguson. $16! No! I can wait. I am patient. Since I already have a Kobo, if I won, I would likely give this to my 9-yr old daughter who would probably want to read one of the Warriors books by Erin Hunter – she absolutely loves them!

111 | Days

February 12th, 2013 at 8:52 am

Avatar

I think I’d start with some YA fiction- something fun in this dreary February weather!

112 | Jane

February 12th, 2013 at 1:55 pm

Avatar

I would give it to my son, whose 15th! birthday is tomorrow. No doubt one of his first books to read would be The Ultimate Hitchiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, which he rereads every year!

113 | HollyStar

February 12th, 2013 at 2:31 pm

Avatar

I think my first read would be “Let’s Pretend this never Happened” by Jenny Lawson (the Bloggess). It seems only right to read a blogger’s book on an e-reader!!!

114 | Rema

February 12th, 2013 at 2:48 pm

Avatar

The first book(s) I would read is the Game of Thrones. I’ve heard lots of good things and am dying to read it!!

115 | Danielle

February 12th, 2013 at 5:10 pm

Avatar

The first book I would read would be Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell: A Novel. At 1024 pages, it is impossible to carry in the diaper bag in hardcopy!

116 | Sunshine G

February 12th, 2013 at 6:17 pm

Avatar

I’ll read the Happiest Toddler on the Block – not glamourous but very topical!

118 | Heather

February 12th, 2013 at 10:05 pm

Avatar

Oh it’s so cute! I would read The night circus :)

119 | Bonny Dixon MacIsaac

February 12th, 2013 at 10:12 pm

Avatar

Well it might sound funny but I’m on a mission this year. The first book I would pick is – ‘The Complete Idiots Guide to Knitting and Crocheting. I just can’t figure out crocheting. But I am determined to this year. With the kobo I could take it anywhere with me. It would be perfect!

http://www.kobobooks.com/ebook/The-Complete-Idiots-Guide-Knitting/book-iUZ3aCdDUk2KmnVW5tS1Rg/page1.html?s=xDbvi3vlxkSD9qGJpZE7qw&r=7

120 | Dee

February 12th, 2013 at 10:20 pm

Avatar

Built-in dictionary?! Ooooh! I like.

If I win the Kobo Mini, I will head to the Ottawa Public Library online and request “Bump It Up: Transform Your Pregnancy into the Ultimate Style Statement,” because I have 2 months left and I’m already getting bored of my maternity wardrobe! I’ll also request “Eat and Run: My Unlikely Journey to Ultramarathon Greatness” because I DO look forward to running again and this guy is inspiring!

121 | jeanette

February 12th, 2013 at 10:29 pm

Avatar

I would read Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone with my kids. The would really like to read it and I think they are ready (at least my daughter says she is)!

122 | rhonda

February 12th, 2013 at 10:47 pm

Avatar

The next book on my list is “The Art of Racing in the Rain.” As a dogowner/lover, the fact that it’s told from a dog’s point of view really intrigues me. I actually attempted to read it a few weeks ago but the first chapter had me in tears and it was a stressful time for me. I needed something a bit lighter!

123 | Angela

February 12th, 2013 at 10:53 pm

Avatar

I’ve been slowly making my way through the works of Jane Austen, so Sensef and Sensibility would be next on my list.

124 | Kerry Gogush cule

February 12th, 2013 at 10:54 pm

Avatar

I would read something trashy like a Sue Gardner novel. Very cool!

125 | Stephen

February 13th, 2013 at 7:31 am

Avatar

The next book I hope to read – and would do so on the Kobo is “After the Music Stopped: The Financial Crisis, the Response, and the Work Ahead” by Alan S. Blinder

126 | Isabelle

February 13th, 2013 at 8:13 am

Avatar

I would love to read Julia Child’s My life in France. I usually prefer reading fiction over biographies but I would make an exception for that one!

127 | Meghan

February 13th, 2013 at 9:05 am

Avatar

I would like to have some cookbooks on my kobo and save me from having piles of paper everywhere – I would get the Kind Diet by Alicia Silverstone.

128 | Genevieve

February 13th, 2013 at 9:29 am

Avatar

The first thing I would read on the Kobo Mini is something by Jodi Picoult. I’ve really been enjoying her books lately!

129 | Jodi Sonoda

February 13th, 2013 at 9:30 am

Avatar

I would totally grab Jenny Lausens “Lets pretend this never happened”. I have the hard cover but its so heavy at night I just keep reading a page or two and then giving up :)

130 | meg

February 13th, 2013 at 9:36 am

Avatar

What’s the first thing you will read on your Kobo Mini?

I would read the ‘End of Your Life Book Club’ by Will Schwalbe. It is a true story of Will and his mother who come together near the end of her life (she has cancer) and read and talk together. I love reading and have many books on the go at once.

131 | andrea

February 13th, 2013 at 12:01 pm

Avatar

Thanks for your entries! Comments are now closed and I will be announcing the winner here ASAP.

132 | andrea

February 13th, 2013 at 12:05 pm

Avatar

We have a winner! It’s commenter #25 – Bob LeDrew – who wrote:

“I might test my self-restraint and wait until Stephen King releases “Joyland” in June 2013.”

Woot! Congratulations Bob! I’ll be emailing you ASAP. :)

comment form:

Archives

Me and my pet projects

Ottawa Bucket list

Subscribe via email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.


  • Davey: Love Full Cycle in Hintonburg - great folks, really personal and honest service. I'm also a fan of Phat Moose over on the east side of the Pretoria Br
  • Sally Dowe Marchand: Here here to bike riding. When I returned to work for a short term contract after retirement I did two things. One I promised i would not dive back I
  • Rachel: Thank you for this tip!
  • A Mud Room Confession - MKDB: […] It’s ok for today cause I’m feeling kinda passionate about mud rooms since Andrea at A Peak Inside the Fish Bowl has been promot
  • Will: Don't be afraid to be a prude. The world needs more prudes, not less. Don't let others shake you for caring about how your children dress and what the
  • Dean Prentice: Enjoyed reading your stories, having recently visited Silent lake and taking some time to take in the view from the memorial bench I too wondered who
  • Jennifer Jilks: Good for you! that's how I started jogging. We lived in North Gower, though, and I thought I'd work up to running around the block. It was 7 km, as we

The Obligatory Blurb

My name is Andrea and I live in the Westboro area of Ottawa with my husband Mark and our dog Piper who is kind of a big deal on Instagram. We also have two human offspring: Emma (23) and Sarah (21). During the day I work as a writer at The Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre. I am a longtime Ottawa blogger and I've occupied this little corner of the WWW since 1999. The Fishbowl is my whiteboard, water cooler, and journal, all rolled into one. I'm passionate about healthy living, arts and culture, travel, great gear, good food, and sharing the best of Ottawa. I also love vegetables, photography, gadgets, and great design.

If you'd like to contact me, please use this form. If you're so inclined, you can read more about me here. Thank you for visiting!

 


Connect with me at these places too!

All hail the mighty Twitter