Ryu Murakami bypasses publisher dominance by going iPad

7:00 PM on 07.21.2010   |   Josh Tolentino

Despite really being several iPod Touches nailed together, it seems the iPad is here to stay.

It's an intriguing device though, especially in its potential as a replacement for paper-bound books and manga. Nothing's going to take the place of turning a page or not having to charge your battery for an extended read, but it is certainly an option for the space-strapped. Which makes it and its ilk a great option for Japanese.

And apparently some writers are catching onto that fact. Ryu Murakami has signed on with Apple to release his newest novel in advance of the print version. It's a clever way to bypass the typical stranglehold most big publishers have over their authors, cutting out the middleman and selling directly to the reader.

And he's not limiting himself to boring pure-text e-books, either. Murakami is also working with Apple on an e-book package titled "The Singing Whale", which will include video content and a custom-composed soundtrack.

Hmm...a text story...with a soundtrack...and some video content. Sounds like a visual novel! I could sure go for a iPad-based Fate/stay night or Tsukihime port.

MOAR technology:

Docomo's NERV smartphone captures the Evangelion feel

Girls und Panzer is the latest from Squid Girl director

Tokyo Firefly Festival LED light installation is stunning

Tupac Shakur and Hatsune Miku are now exactly the same

Interactive poster tech lets you kiss your favorite idols

Facebook Shares

Around the web