I was thinking lately that the Amazon Kindle might be fading away as the iPad and other tablets enter the market and have more features and functions. But I decided to pontificate on why I think the Kindle is still a good option: 1) It's price has come down and entry is reasonable; 2) Having a 'reader' does get you to read more and spend more. I download more books than I ever purchased in the store, but I actually read them. Sampling books is a habit, I always read the sample and 95% of the time end up buying the book after the sample is done. 3) The Kindle still offers the battery life and 'simplicity' that is called for in a Reader. I'm never distracted while on it by ads or the need to surf off onto the net. I like that, it still has the calming effect that I want when I elect to read. Still a good option and I hope they do well in Holiday sales this year.