Convert MOBI to ORG

Why Convert MOBI to ORG?

Converting MOBI ebooks to Org-mode format is ideal for Emacs users who want to integrate book content into their knowledge management and note-taking workflows. Org-mode is one of the most powerful organizational tools available, combining outlining, task management, code execution, and document authoring in a single plain text format. It's perfect for academics, researchers, and developers who live in Emacs.

MOBI (Mobipocket) format is designed for reading on Kindle devices, but its binary format makes it impossible to edit or integrate with text-based workflows. Converting to Org format extracts the content into a hierarchical outline that can be folded, searched, tagged, and manipulated using all of Org-mode's powerful features. This is ideal for creating research notes, extracting key concepts, or building a personal knowledge base.

Org-mode excels at structured content with its hierarchical outline system. Book chapters become top-level headings, sections become subheadings, and you can add your own notes, TODO items, tags, and properties to any part of the document. The plain text format is version control friendly, making it easy to track changes and collaborate using Git.

One of Org-mode's unique features is literate programming—the ability to embed executable code blocks in your documents. When converting programming books or technical documentation from MOBI to ORG, you can make the code examples actually executable, creating interactive notebooks for learning and experimentation. Org-mode can also export to HTML, PDF, LaTeX, and many other formats.

Key Benefits of Converting MOBI to ORG:

• Emacs Integration: Native support in GNU Emacs
• Powerful Outlining: Hierarchical structure with folding
• Task Management: Add TODO items and schedules
• Executable Code: Run code blocks directly in document
• Export Options: Convert to HTML, PDF, LaTeX, Markdown
• Knowledge Base: Integrate into personal wiki/notes
• Plain Text: Version control friendly

Practical Examples

Example 1: Programming Book to Interactive Notes

Input MOBI file (python-guide.mobi):

[Binary MOBI file]
Contains: "Python Programming Guide"
Chapters on variables, functions, classes
Code examples and exercises

Output ORG file (python-guide.org):

#+TITLE: Python Programming Guide
#+AUTHOR: John Developer
#+DATE: 2025-01-15

* Chapter 1: Variables

Variables store data values in Python.

#+BEGIN_SRC python :results output
name = "Alice"
age = 30
print(f"{name} is {age} years old")
#+END_SRC

* Chapter 2: Functions

Functions are reusable blocks of code.

#+BEGIN_SRC python :results output
def greet(name):
    return f"Hello, {name}!"

print(greet("World"))
#+END_SRC

** TODO Practice: Write a function to calculate factorial

* Chapter 3: Classes
:PROPERTIES:
:CATEGORY: OOP
:END:

Classes provide object-oriented programming...

Example 2: Research Book to Notes

Input MOBI file (research-methods.mobi):

[Academic eBook]
Research Methodology in Social Sciences
Multiple chapters with theories and methods

Output ORG file (research-methods.org):

#+TITLE: Research Methodology in Social Sciences
#+FILETAGS: :research:methodology:

* Chapter 1: Introduction to Research
** Quantitative vs Qualitative                    :quantitative:qualitative:

| Method       | Characteristics      | Best For          |
|--------------+----------------------+-------------------|
| Quantitative | Numbers, statistics  | Large samples     |
| Qualitative  | Descriptions, themes | Deep understanding |

** TODO Read more about mixed methods

* Chapter 2: Research Design                      :design:
** Experimental Design

Experimental research involves manipulation
of variables...

*** Note: Compare with Campbell & Stanley (1963)

* Chapter 3: Data Collection                      :data:
:PROPERTIES:
:DEADLINE: <2025-02-01>
:END:

Example 3: Novel to Reading Notes

Input MOBI file (mystery-novel.mobi):

[Kindle eBook]
Title: The Silent Witness
Genre: Mystery/Thriller

Output ORG file (mystery-novel.org):

#+TITLE: The Silent Witness
#+AUTHOR: Mystery Author
#+FILETAGS: :fiction:mystery:

* Chapter One: The Discovery

The old mansion stood silent against the
gray November sky...

** Characters Introduced
- Detective Sarah Chen (protagonist)
- Victim: Robert Harrison

** Plot Points
- [ ] Who called the police?
- [ ] Why was Harrison at the mansion?

* Chapter Two: First Clues

The forensics team arrived at dawn...

** Evidence
1. Broken window in study
2. Footprints in garden
3. Missing photograph

** TODO Research Victorian mansion architecture for context

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is MOBI format?

A: MOBI (Mobipocket) is an ebook format originally developed by Mobipocket SA and later acquired by Amazon in 2005. It was the primary format for Kindle devices before being replaced by AZW3/KF8. MOBI files use PalmDOC compression and can contain DRM protection. Amazon announced in 2022 that MOBI is being phased out.

Q: What is Org-mode?

A: Org-mode is a mode for GNU Emacs that provides a powerful system for note-taking, project planning, task management, and authoring. Created by Carsten Dominik in 2003, it uses plain text with a hierarchical outline structure. It's become one of the most popular features of Emacs, especially among academics and programmers.

Q: Do I need Emacs to use ORG files?

A: While Org-mode is designed for Emacs and works best there, ORG files are plain text and can be read/edited in any text editor. VS Code and Vim have Org-mode extensions. Pandoc can convert ORG files to other formats. However, for the full Org-mode experience (folding, agenda, code execution), Emacs is recommended.

Q: Will my book's formatting be preserved?

A: Basic structure like chapters, sections, paragraphs, and lists will be converted to Org's outline format. Bold and italic will be preserved. However, complex formatting may be simplified. The focus is on content hierarchy and structure rather than visual formatting. You can add Org-mode specific features like tags, properties, and TODO items.

Q: Can I execute code in the converted ORG file?

A: If the original MOBI contains code examples, they'll be converted to Org code blocks. In Emacs with proper configuration, you can make these blocks executable by adding language specifications and execution parameters. This turns static code examples into interactive, executable notebooks.

Q: Can I convert DRM-protected MOBI files?

A: No, DRM-protected MOBI files cannot be converted without first removing the DRM, which may violate terms of service or copyright law. This converter works with DRM-free MOBI files only. Always ensure you have the legal right to convert ebook content.

Q: Is Org-mode better than Markdown?

A: Org-mode is more powerful with features like task management, properties, code execution, and advanced export options. Markdown is simpler and more widely supported. Choose Org-mode if you use Emacs and want powerful organizational features. Choose Markdown for simplicity and universal compatibility.

Q: Can I export ORG files to other formats?

A: Yes, Org-mode has excellent export capabilities. You can export to HTML, PDF (via LaTeX), ODT, Markdown, plain text, and many other formats directly from Emacs. Pandoc also supports Org-mode conversion to numerous formats, making it a versatile intermediate format.