Free Your Books: Why and How to Convert Kindle and Other Ebooks to EPUB
Have you ever purchased an ebook—excited to dive in—only to realize you can only read it within a single app or on a specific device? That frustrating moment when you discover your book is locked away behind layers of restrictions is all too common. You’re not alone in feeling that your purchase should come with more freedom.
At Bookrise.io, we believe that buying a book—especially at full price—should mean full ownership. Just as a physical book belongs to you once you buy it, digital books should offer the same flexibility. You should be able to carry your ebooks across devices, apps, and platforms without barriers.
In this article, we explore why converting your ebooks to the open EPUB format is a game-changer for readers. We’ll share the philosophy behind open formats, introduce you to a trusted tool that makes the conversion process simple, and empower you to reclaim control of your digital library. If you’ve ever wanted to read your books your way, this is where your journey begins.
What’s the Big Deal About EPUB?
Think of EPUB as the MP3 of ebooks: open, universal, and ready for any device you choose. Unlike Kindle’s AZW or Apple’s protected formats, EPUB lets you:
- Read Anywhere: Easily move your ebooks between different apps and devices.
- Own Your Library: No fear of losing access if you change devices or apps.
- Future-Proof: EPUB’s open standard means it’s likely to remain compatible for the long haul.
Understanding Digital Rights Management (DRM)
Before diving into conversion, it’s important to understand DRM—the technology that restricts how you can use your ebooks. While DRM aims to prevent piracy, it often creates unnecessary barriers for legitimate book owners. Here’s what you need to know:
- Different stores use different DRM systems
- Some publishers offer DRM-free options
- Always check the store’s DRM policy before purchasing
- Support publishers who offer DRM-free options when possible
Buying vs. Renting: Know the Difference
Subscription services like Kindle Unlimited or Scribd are great for access, but they’re not about ownership. When you buy a single ebook outright, it should be yours to keep, move, and read however you wish. You paid for ownership—don’t settle for less.
Popular EPUB Readers
Once you’ve converted your books to EPUB, you have many great reading options:
- Calibre’s built-in reader (Desktop)
- Apple Books (iOS/MacOS)
- Google Play Books (Android/Web)
- Kobo devices and apps
- PocketBook Reader
- Aldiko Book Reader
How to Convert Your Ebooks to EPUB with Calibre
Calibre is the ultimate tool for taking control of your digital library. It’s user-friendly, powerful, and completely free. Here’s how to start:
Step-by-Step Conversion:
- Download Calibre: Grab the latest version from calibre-ebook.com.
- Add Your Ebook: Open Calibre, click “Add Books,” and select your file.
- Convert Your Ebook: Select your book, click “Convert,” pick EPUB as your format, and click “OK.”
Enjoy Your EPUB: Calibre saves the converted file—use it freely on Apple Books, Google Play Books, Kobo devices, and beyond.
Advanced Tips for Better Conversions
For the best results when converting your ebooks:
- Always check the metadata before converting
- Use the “Look & Feel” settings to adjust formatting
- Consider installing additional conversion plugins
- Back up your original files before converting
- Test the converted file on your target device
The Importance of Open Books
Choosing open standards like EPUB isn’t just about convenience—it’s a statement. It signals that you value a digital world where users are empowered, not restricted. At Bookrise.io, we believe that a fair and vibrant reading ecosystem must support both sides of the equation: authors and publishers should be fairly compensated, and readers should have the freedom to enjoy the books they buy without needless limitations.
In an ideal digital environment, when you purchase a book, you’re buying more than just access—you’re buying longevity, flexibility, and the ability to choose your own tools. You’re investing in knowledge, in stories, and in ideas that should travel with you across devices and through time. EPUB enables that. It’s an open, future-proof format that respects your role not just as a customer, but as a custodian of your own digital library.
We’re not against innovation from platforms like Amazon or Apple. But innovation shouldn’t come at the cost of freedom. Walled gardens may be seamless, but they’re also limiting. Supporting open formats is how we ensure that no single company controls how, when, or where we read. It’s how we protect the very idea of a personal library in the digital age.
Take Control of Your Digital Reading
Converting your ebooks to EPUB isn’t just a tech hack—it’s a quiet revolution. It gives you back the power to decide how you read, where you read, and what you use to read. Whether you switch from iPhone to Android, upgrade to a new e-reader, or just want to read on your laptop, having your books in EPUB format means you’re not starting over.
At Bookrise.io, we’re here to support readers who care about freedom, longevity, and quality in their digital experience. Our mission is to help you build a personal library that lasts—one that isn’t tied to a single brand, device, or ecosystem.
So if you’ve ever felt limited by the format your book came in, remember: converting it to EPUB is your way of saying, “This is mine.” Because when you pay for a book, you should genuinely own the reading experience.
Converting ebooks to EPUB gives you the power and flexibility you deserve. At Bookrise.io, we’re all about helping readers enjoy their books without limits. Own your reading experience—because when you pay for a book, you should genuinely own it.