It is absolutely a personal preference, but for reading I love the Kindle. It is just like reading a book, if that is all you want it to do. I have an IPad, and love it, but the back light is tiring on my eyes and impossible to read outside in the sunlight. You kind of need to figure out your needs (or your son's) and then look into your options of Kindle, Nook or IPad. If you have a Barnes and Noble close to you, you can try them out. And I think the Kindles are at Staples now. Good luck ~ Pat