There is a book waiting to come out of every teacher and student. This column will present the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to show how you---and your students---can become published authors with eBook technology and leave a living legacy globally.

The fact that teachers and students can leave a written legacy affordably with eBook technology is becoming more appealing to educators. The idea that a profit can be achieved is an added benefit. The knowledge that students can become published authors at an early age incorporating current literacy initiatives with technology of the present is an educator's and parent's dream.

It truly is an exciting endeavor to have the opportunity to write for Teachers.net and to help educators and students share their talents, knowledge, and passion with a global online community. This is a literacy initiative of immense importance.

This column will have a dual focus---firstly, I intend to show educators how to become published authors using eBook technology. There are 10 steps in the eBook authoring process and in the coming months, each step will be presented. Secondly, this column will focus on awakening the minds of educators to the benefits of eBook technology for students. These articles will offer a synthesis of background information, reflection, goal setting, and writing as the foundation for this authoring journey.

The three features of an eBook that are carrying it to the forefront of common usage are portability, interactivity, and versatility. eBooks are:

• Portable---Information can be transmitted at the speed of light. With the development of the microchip, fiber optic technology, and the Internet, communication in digital format can be transmitted effortlessly and in "real time". eBooks can be delivered by download, and /or as an email attachment. They can also be stored on diskette and CD-ROM.
• Versatile---Knowledge can be easily updated with changes being made seamlessly. People now have greater access to current information and are able to make more informed decisions.
• Interactive---Readers are finally engaged in their learning experience. Engagement means greater retention, increased motivation and a greater sense of control over one's learning.

Imagine reading your favorite book with video, sound effects and animation. Or visualize reading your favorite historical novel with music from this period including key background information about the setting. Consider reading a "how-to" book with simulation capabilities. Picture reading your book through special software to help you read better or changing the font size to help you overcome a reading difficulty you might have. Imagine listening to your favorite book on your MP3 Player while walking your dog. Books come to life with these capabilities and more.

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