Best blogs to read on handhelds
August 6, 2007
Casey Muller
tag: sidekicktag: blog
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!
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