Converting an eBook to vertical reading format enhances readability for languages like Traditional Chinese and Japanese, which follow a top-to-bottom, right-to-left writing style. This format is especially beneficial for manga, light novels, and classic literature.
Conversely, if you are more familiar with Simplified Chinese or prefer a left-to-right layout, you can convert vertical text to horizontal for a more comfortable reading experience.
Method 1: Using Calibre (Free & Cross-Platform)
Calibre is the ultimate eBook management tool, providing a free and user-friendly platform to organize, convert, and customize eBooks across multiple formats—making it indispensable for avid readers. Follow the instructions below to adjust your ebooks for vertical or horizontal reading.
Step 1Download and Install Calibre
Step 2Import eBooks to Calibre
Open Calibre and click on the "Add books" button to import your ebooks.
Calibre can't convert EPUB files for vertical or horizontal reading. Instead, import other formats like AZW3 or first convert your EPUB to another format using Calibre before converting to vertical or horizontal reading style.
Step 3Add Metadata Tag for Vertical or Horizontal Reading
1. Select the imported book, right-click, and then select "Convert".
2. Select "AZW3" or your desired format for the output format in the upper-right corner of the window.
3. On the left panel, select "Look & Feel".
4. On the right panel, select the "Transform HTML" tab.
5. Select "Add rule":
6. For the "Tag name" input box, type in the following: metadata.
7. In the "Then" section, click on the dropdown box.
8. Select "Insert HTML at start".
9. In the "HTML snippet" input box, copy and paste the following rule into it:
<meta name="primary-writing-mode" content="horizontal-rl"/>
10. Click "OK".
Step 4Export the Vertical File
Click "OK" to start the conversion. The converted AZW3 file will be saved in your Calibre library, ready for vertical reading.
Important:
1. If you need to convert your ebook for horizontal reading, in the "HTML snippet" input box, copy and paste the following rule into it:
<meta name="primary-writing-mode" content="vertical-lr"/>
2. Calibre may not always convert your file to vertical format correctly. If this happens, we recommend using Method 2 instead.
Method 2: Free Online Tool (Quick and Easy)
If you prefer an online solution, you can use tools like EPUBHV to adjust the EPUB layout. EPUBHV is a powerful, free online tool that easily converts your EPUB books to vertical or horizontal reading formats for an optimized reading experience.
Step 1Visit EPUBHV Website:http://epubhv.streamlit.app/
Step 2Upload Your EPUB
EPUBHV exclusively supports converting EPUB files, compensating for Calibre's inability to convert EPUBs for vertical or horizontal layout.
Step 3Choose Vertical or Horizontal Layout
Step 4Transform EPUB for Vertical or Horizontal Reading
Click "Transform" to begin the conversion. Once complete, a folder will pop up to let you download the updated EPUB file with the chosen reading orientation.
How to Remove DRM from EPUB Books?
Most EPUB books can be decrypted using Epubor DeDRM tools. For detailed instructions, refer to this guide on removing DRM from EPUB files.
Amy Lopez crafts informative articles on eBooks and eReaders, uncovering optimal methods to enhance your eBook reading experience, and eagerly shares her findings with you.
