Editor's note: The marriage of technology and communication has been a boon to savvy entrepreneurs, but it's also a huge challenge for those who aren't sure how to navigate social networks. To help, Dallas-based entrepreneur and tech expert Shama Kabani is answering your questions. Email her at shama@marketingzen.com, or check out more of her advice at her online marketing company or on video.

Dear Shama,

I am a voracious reader, and as my library gets out of control, I am seriously considering an e-reader, but I am not a techie. At first I was trying to decide between the Kindle or the iPad, but my neighbor suggested the Nook. What are the differences, and what do you recommend for an old-school reader like me?

—Jake L, Vancouver

Dear Jake,

Always a pleasure to help out a fellow book lover. At lunchtime, I was the kid sneaking in a sandwich to the library so I could read and eat in peace. And, I understand the aesthetic qualities that makes books so wonderful. I also know that with my travel schedule, I couldn’t take all my books and still have room for my wardrobe. So, a few years ago, I caved and got a Kindle. I’ve never looked back. The ability to have thousands of books at my fingertips has outweighed any concerns I felt about leaving behind the tangible feel of a page. I also have an iPad, but I rarely use it to read books.

You have to ask yourself what are you specifically looking for in a device? Do you want to watch movies, listen to music, edit documents? Or, do you just want to read? That question will help you decide which device is better for your needs.

If you are looking to multitask, the iPad is a great device that lets you do almost anything you want, thanks to the millions of apps out there. The newest Kindle, the Kindle Fire, is a great e-reader that also lets you watch movies and TV shows—but it isn’t as robust as the iPad. There is also price to consider. The Kindle Fire at $199 is significantly cheaper than the iPad at $499.

Frankly, I don’t like either gadget if you simply want a device which lets you read your books. Here is why. I stare at a computer screen all day long. When I curl up with a good e-reader, I want it to not feel like a computer. The original Kindles (now the Kindle 3) have an e-paper screen. It isn’t backlit, so eye strain is minimal compared with a computer screen. And you can read it in the sunlight without a glare. The Nook, also in the running, is comparable to the Kindle 3. And, if you buy books from Barnes and Noble instead of Amazon, this is the device I’d recommend. At $99 dollars, it is slightly more expensive than the Kindle 3 ($79), but the Nook also allows you to borrow e-books from your library and read them on the device.

If you are an old-school reader looking for a device that is simple yet gets the job done, I recommend an earlier version of the Kindle (with an e-paper display) or the Nook.

Enjoy your reading!

—Shama