Convert RST to FB2
Max file size 100mb.
RST vs FB2 Format Comparison
| Aspect | RST (Source Format) | FB2 (Target Format) |
|---|---|---|
| Format Overview |
RST
reStructuredText
Lightweight markup language developed by the Python community in 2001. Primary format for Python documentation, Sphinx, and Read the Docs. Emphasizes simplicity and readability with explicit, consistent syntax for technical documentation. Python Standard Sphinx Native |
FB2
FictionBook 2.0
XML-based eBook format developed in Russia in 2004. Extremely popular in Russia and CIS countries. Features structured document representation with rich metadata, making it ideal for fiction and non-fiction books alike. Russian Standard XML Based |
| Technical Specifications |
Structure: Plain text with indentation-based syntax
Encoding: UTF-8 Format: Docutils markup language Processor: Sphinx, Docutils, Pandoc Extensions: .rst, .rest, .txt |
Structure: XML document format
Encoding: UTF-8, Windows-1251 Format: FictionBook 2.0/2.1 Schema: XML Schema Definition Extensions: .fb2, .fb2.zip |
| Content Structure |
RST document structure: Document Title
==============
Chapter One
-----------
This is **bold** and *italic*.
.. code-block:: python
def hello():
print("Hello")
.. note::
Important information here.
|
FB2 XML structure: <FictionBook>
<description>
<title-info>
<book-title>Title</book-title>
<author>...</author>
</title-info>
</description>
<body>
<section>
<title>Chapter</title>
<p>Text content</p>
</section>
</body>
</FictionBook>
|
| Content Support |
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| Advantages |
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| Disadvantages |
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| Common Uses |
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| Best For |
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| Version History |
Introduced: 2001 (David Goodger)
Maintained by: Docutils project Status: Stable, actively maintained Primary Tool: Sphinx (2008+) |
FB2 2.0: 2004 (original)
FB2 2.1: 2009 (current) Created by: Dmitry Gribov Status: Stable, widely used |
| Reader Support |
Sphinx: Native support
Docutils: Reference implementation Pandoc: Full support IDEs: PyCharm, VS Code (extensions) |
PocketBook: Native format
CoolReader: Full support FBReader: Full support Moon+ Reader: Full support Calibre: Convert/read |
Why Convert RST to FB2?
Converting reStructuredText (RST) documents to FB2 format makes your technical documentation accessible to millions of readers in Russia and CIS countries. FB2 (FictionBook) is the dominant eBook format in the Russian-speaking world, supported by all major e-readers and apps in the region.
FB2's XML-based structure preserves document semantics excellently, making it ideal for technical content. The format maintains clear chapter structure, code sections, and formatting while adding rich metadata like author information, annotations, and keywords that help organize digital libraries.
For developers creating documentation for Russian-speaking users, FB2 is essential. Popular e-readers like PocketBook use FB2 as their native format, and reading apps like FBReader, CoolReader, and Moon+ Reader provide excellent FB2 support on mobile devices.
The format is particularly efficient for text-heavy content. FB2 files are typically smaller than EPUB equivalents while maintaining full formatting. Images are embedded using base64 encoding, making FB2 files completely self-contained.
Key Benefits of Converting RST to FB2:
- Russian Market Access: Reach millions of Russian-speaking readers
- PocketBook Native: Primary format for popular PocketBook e-readers
- Rich Metadata: Comprehensive author, genre, and keyword support
- Self-Contained: All images embedded in single file
- XML Structure: Clean, validatable document format
- Compact Size: Efficient for text-heavy documents
- Wide App Support: Works with FBReader, CoolReader, Moon+
Practical Examples
Example 1: Technical Documentation
Input RST file (manual.rst):
User Manual
===========
Introduction
------------
Welcome to the **software manual**.
This guide covers all features.
Installation
------------
Install using pip::
pip install myapp
.. warning::
Backup your data before installation.
Output FB2 structure:
<FictionBook>
<description>
<title-info>
<book-title>User Manual</book-title>
</title-info>
</description>
<body>
<section>
<title>Introduction</title>
<p>Welcome to the <strong>software manual</strong>.</p>
</section>
<section>
<title>Installation</title>
<p>Install using pip:</p>
<code>pip install myapp</code>
</section>
</body>
</FictionBook>
Example 2: Programming Tutorial
Input RST file (python_tutorial.rst):
Python Tutorial
===============
Chapter 1: Basics
-----------------
Python is a versatile language.
.. code-block:: python
print("Hello, World!")
This prints a greeting message.
Result: A well-structured FB2 eBook with proper sections, code formatting, and metadata ready for PocketBook e-readers and Russian eBook apps.
Example 3: API Documentation for CIS Users
Use Case: Distribute Python library documentation to developers using PocketBook e-readers.
Conversion benefits for FB2: ├── Compatible with all PocketBook models ├── Works offline on e-ink devices ├── Searchable text content ├── Proper code block formatting ├── Chapter navigation support └── Compact file size for storage
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is FB2 format?
A: FB2 (FictionBook 2.0) is an XML-based eBook format developed in Russia in 2004. It's the dominant eBook format in Russia and CIS countries, supported by e-readers like PocketBook and apps like FBReader. FB2 features rich metadata and structured document representation.
Q: Why is FB2 popular in Russia?
A: FB2 was designed specifically for the Russian market with excellent Cyrillic support. It became the standard format for Russian eBook libraries and is the native format for PocketBook e-readers, which are very popular in Russia and Eastern Europe.
Q: Can I read FB2 files on Kindle?
A: Kindle doesn't natively support FB2. However, you can use Calibre to convert FB2 to MOBI/AZW3 format for Kindle. Alternatively, use the Kindle's Send to Kindle feature after converting to a supported format.
Q: Will code blocks be preserved in FB2?
A: Yes, code blocks from your RST files are converted to FB2's code elements. They're displayed with monospace formatting in compatible readers. Most FB2 readers handle code well, though syntax highlighting may not be available.
Q: Which apps can read FB2 files?
A: Popular FB2 readers include FBReader (cross-platform), CoolReader (Android/Linux), Moon+ Reader (Android), and AlReader (Android). On desktop, Calibre can read and convert FB2 files. PocketBook e-readers support FB2 natively.
Q: Are images supported in FB2?
A: Yes, FB2 supports embedded images using base64 encoding. Images from your RST documents are embedded directly in the FB2 file, making it completely self-contained without external file dependencies.
Q: How does FB2 compare to EPUB?
A: Both are open eBook formats, but they serve different markets. EPUB is the international standard, while FB2 dominates in Russia/CIS. FB2 uses XML, making it simpler and more compact. EPUB offers more styling options and is more widely supported globally.
Q: Can I convert FB2 to other formats?
A: Yes, FB2's clean XML structure makes it easy to convert. Use Calibre to convert FB2 to EPUB, MOBI, PDF, or other formats. Many FB2 readers also have built-in export features for common formats.