I write in reference to your editorial “A friend for life” (TMID, 30 April).

For information, a new genre is taking hold of people who won’t fine time to read... the MP3 CDs. These allow as much as 50 hours of recording crammed into one or two CD’s.

One has only to browse the net in search of latest versions of Audio-Books. They are soon to present a parallel competition to printed books. Personally I still cling to printed books, but was seduced to buy several MP3 whilst abroad and don’t regret it at all. They are so practical, just an MP3 player and pair of ear phones, easy to carry on buses, planes, trains, leisure time at some garden or beach. One word of advice... try to sample hearings before buying. Much of their success depends on the ability of their speakers.

Charles Abela

Sliema