I came across a russian site http://kindle.zzweb.ru/paperwhite/repair.... Basicly it sates this: (1) Connect the Kindle Paperwhite to a computer USB-cable. (2) Create an empty file in the root directory DO_FACTORY_RESTORE. (3) Safely disconnect the reader from your computer. (4) Reboot your device by holding the power button. I did this and my kindle paperwhite did a factory reset and I was able to use it again. I had previously tried to format the drive and place a firmware update on the drive so I do not know if this will remove your books. Please try and back up your books if you can before you do this. Hope this helps others.