nook Updated (or: How B&N Disappoints Me Again)

I thought I might give you an update on my nook, in case any of you are interested.

I've read several (a dozen?) books on it so far and I really enjoy using it. I find now that I prefer to read a book in e-format than in paper, which is definitely something I never thought I'd say. I'm still buying paper books when the e-format isn't available because I do still like reading in that format, too. But if it's available digitally, that's my preference now.

However.

You'll recall that the first nook I received was defective. I was able to exchange it for a brand new unit with relatively little hassle and things have been smooth since then. Until about a week ago, when I noticed two cracks on the forward page turn button on the right side (the one I use more often when I read). The button still works but, dammit, it shouldn't be cracked with how much I've used it and how long I've owned it--I've never dropped it, it's kept in a protective case when it's not in my hand, etc.--and I didn't want to take the chance that the crack would turn into something more serious (and non-functioning) while I'm in Japan.

A quick phone call to B&N had a new nook on its way to me with no questions asked. Wonderful! I got a pre-paid shipping label emailed to me for the broken unit. Easy, peasy.

Mmmyeah. Not so much. The "new" unit arrived last night, accompanied with an invoice announcing that it's actually a "refurbished" unit. Grrrrrr. But okay, fine, whatever. As long as it works, right?

Well it freaking doesn't. One of the page turning buttons doesn't work. Another call to B&N, during which I talk to the sweetest, most sympathetic woman who totally gets that this is now my third defective nook and I AM NOT HAPPY. They're sending another unit out to me, but this will also be a refurbished one since that's (allegedly) all they have in stock right now.

*sigh*

This has been a pattern in my life. I routinely choose to support the non-mainstream manufacturer on a matter of principle and I get hosed for it. I hate to say it. I really do. But... maybe I should've bought a Kindle. :(

Updates to follow as the saga continues.