Best blogs to read on handhelds
August 6, 2007
Casey Muller

I've had a Sidekick (CSK, II, or 3) for over four years now. One thing I constantly use it for is a book backup/replacement. On any kind of public transportation, or while waiting for an appointment, I first check email and IMs, then locate some text to read. I want to compile some of my favorite sources into a list to help others.

The criteria:

  • Mostly text rather than video, audio, or pictures (the latter options can be enjoyed, but are not at their best)
  • Not linkblogs (especially for subways and planes, following the links is not an option)
  • Not magazines/newspapers (you don't need me to tell you about ESPN or Slate)
  • Has an RSS feed (best to use an RSS reader to keep track of where I am in various feeds)
  • Not long-form novels (good temporary sources, but not long-term useful)
  • Wide variety of subjects (never know what I'll be in the mood for)

With that in mind, here are the ones I find myself going to most frequently:

  • Bite-size feeds - These are funny blank snippets that people transcribe or invent- often very offensive or pretentious, but great for a quick wait
  • The Dilbert Blog - Simply one of the best blogs out there, religiously updated every day, almost entirely text, inflammatory, constantly entertaining in different ways; Scott Adams is freakin' genius all around
  • Jane in Progress - With IFYLoFD defunct, Jane in Progress is the most entertaining screenwriting blog out there- daily concrete advice about writing and scripts, and she tosses in just enough Buffy and BSG insider notes to keep me thrilled (runner-up screenwriting choice: By Ken Levine)
  • blog.pmarca.com - Marc Andreeson already gets rave reviews everywhere, but let me pile on- great content-rich blogging about startups, companies, financials, etc
  • Schneier on Security - Down near the end of my list because it can be link-heavy, but great insight on a variety of security topics
  • Qualifying sources I used to read but rarely check - These were in my rotation as recently as a couple months ago, but I find myself unmotivated to read them except when I've exhausted everything else. This also makes them good options for long subways and planes where I want a lot of text built up
    • Lefsetz Letter - Can be rambling, but always has interesting nuggets, and I never feel like I'm missing anything if I stop halfway anyway
    • I, Cringley - Lots of verbiage, but good thought experiments, and I'm so happy they switched to full text feeds a few months aog

I also used to have a collection of short fiction webzines (Strange Horizons for example), but I haven't felt the urge to read them in a while.

If you've got other good handheld reading suggestions, leave them below or email me!

previous entry:

A pause on random pictures